UAE Signs Three Key Agreements To Enhance Sustainable Development Across Asia And Africa

The UAE has formalised three cooperation agreements to promote sustainable development in Asia and Africa. These agreements focus on environmental, social, and economic areas, aligning with the UAE's mission to aid societal development and address current and future challenges. The agreements aim to enhance happiness and provide solutions for these regions.

Two of the agreements were signed in the presence of Louise Araneta, First Lady of the Philippines, and Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment. The first agreement involves collaboration with the Philippines to rejuvenate the Pasig River in Manila. This was signed by Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, the Philippines's Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, alongside Abdullah Al Qubaisi from the Clean Rivers Foundation.

Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak expressed enthusiasm for this partnership, highlighting its significance in environmental protection and climate action between the UAE and the Philippines. She emphasised the UAE leadership's dedication to preserving river ecosystems under President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The agreement aims to support circular economy solutions that prevent waste while creating socio-economic opportunities in the Philippines. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on communities by reducing water pollution and promoting sustainable practices.

The second agreement establishes a strategic partnership between the Clean Rivers Foundation and the "Borealis and Systemiq" initiative. This collaboration focuses on enhancing waste management infrastructure in Indonesia by recycling plastics, managing organic materials, building capacity, and reducing waste leakage into rivers and marine environments.

Deborah Bacchus from Clean Rivers Foundation signed this agreement with Benjamin Dixon from Systemiq and Borealis. Abdullah Al Qubaisi remarked on this partnership's alignment with global environmental goals, stating that it aims to transform waste management practices in Banyuwangi, Indonesia.

"Guided by the UAE's water agenda," said Al Qubaisi, "Clean Rivers is honoured to partner with the Indonesian government on a transformative waste management project." He hopes this initiative will inspire other regions while improving lives dependent on river systems.

Empowering Entrepreneurs in Africa

The third agreement involves cooperation between Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Works and Tony Elumelu Foundation. This partnership seeks to empower 1,000 entrepreneurs across Africa through financial support and training. The goal is to boost entrepreneurship as a key driver of economic growth on the continent.

This agreement was signed by Mohammed Haji Al Khouri from Khalifa Foundation alongside Tony Elumelu himself. Al Khouri highlighted that this initiative reflects foundational values set by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan which continue under current leadership.

"The agreement aims," said Al Khouri, "to empower African entrepreneurs fostering socio-economic development." By supporting innovative solutions for community challenges, it contributes towards building a sustainable global economy.

With inputs from WAM