UAE Commits To Global Partnerships For Sustainable Development Goals At UN Forum

The United Arab Emirates delegation to the United Nations’ High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development has reaffirmed its dedication to global partnerships supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). During a session titled "Unlocking Investments for the SDGs," Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Deputy Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Knowledge Exchange, emphasised that the UAE acknowledges the significant challenges facing the SDGs and has developed international programmes and investment tools in response.

Lootah stated, "The UAE has adopted a comprehensive approach to accelerating the implementation of SDGs as we count down to 2030." He further mentioned that the UAE will continue forming regional and international partnerships with both public and private sectors to hasten progress towards achieving SDGs by 2030. These partnerships aim to enhance quality of life and help eradicate poverty. The UAE’s development initiatives and investments extend globally, collaborating with governments, development banks, and private sector institutions for maximum impact.

The session took place on the first day of the forum, which runs from 8th-17th July and is organised by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs in New York. The forum serves as a primary platform for discussing sustainable development within the United Nations framework. Established in 2012, it plays a crucial role in monitoring and reviewing the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

During his address, Lootah highlighted various initiatives undertaken by national entities such as the Emirates Red Crescent, Ministry of Interior, Abu Dhabi Development Fund, Government Experience Exchange Programme, Masdar, and Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives. These efforts underline the UAE's commitment to sustainable development beyond its borders.

The forum's theme this year is ‘Accelerating recovery from COVID-19 and fully implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at all levels.’ It will review SDGs 1, 2, 13, 16, and 17 in-depth. The session was attended by government officials and representatives from international authorities and organisations. Discussions centred on revitalising global partnerships for sustainable development as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals 2024 Report launched by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the UN in June.

Engagements at the Forum

The UAE delegation participated in sessions focusing on SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), sustainable growth, energy transition, and climate action. They also engaged in numerous bilateral meetings with delegations from participating countries, institutions, and organisations. These interactions aimed at fostering collaborations that could bridge financial gaps essential for achieving SDGs.

The forum also highlighted opportunities and challenges related to bridging global financial gaps necessary for achieving SDGs. There was a particular focus on activating roles of international and multilateral financial institutions. This aligns with one of the priorities set out in the Sustainable Development Goals 2024 Report.

The High-Level Political Forum continues to be instrumental in discussing sustainable development issues globally. By focusing on key areas such as partnerships for goals and energy transition, it aims to drive collective efforts towards meeting SDG targets by 2030.

The UAE remains committed to its role in these discussions through active participation and collaboration with various stakeholders worldwide. This dedication underscores its broader vision of contributing significantly to global sustainable development efforts.

With inputs from WAM