The United Arab Emirates underscored its steadfast commitment to the environment and sustainable development by securing a prestigious accolade at the 2024 Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Partnerships Awards.
The SIDS Partnerships Awards honor entities fostering sustainable development in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). UAE clinched first in the Economic Category for its UAE Pacific Partnership Fund and UAE Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund. These initiatives, backed by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), and Masdar, aim to advance renewable energy adoption, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and enhance climate resilience in the Caribbean and Pacific regions. They mobilize funds, involve multiple stakeholders, and promote economic growth, innovation, and gender empowerment.
H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and Chairman of the Fund’s Executive Committee, expressed his sincere appreciation to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the endeavours undertaken by His Highness in the field of sustainability, which have extended to many countries, including those in the Caribbean and Pacific region.
He also commended His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development's endeavours, for an unwavering focus on projects to develop solar and wind energy and other renewable energy sources in Small Island Developing States, including many in the Caribbean.
H.H. Sheikh Abdullah stressed that the award reflects the UAE’s firm commitment and its pioneering initiatives to support sustainable development and environmental preservation at the regional and global levels. The award also reflects the UAE’s contributions to confronting environmental challenges and its implementation of many prominent development projects in Small Island Developing States and Caribbean countries.
Omar Shehadeh, Envoy of the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, said,
“The United Arab Emirates is delighted to receive this prestigious recognition at the 2024 Small Island Developing States Partnerships Awards. This accolade reflects our steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The first-place win in the Economic Category for our UAE Pacific Partnership Fund and UAE Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund underscores our dedication to impactful and innovative collaborations that drive positive change.
“By mobilising $100 million and fostering a unique cooperative model, we have been able to work alongside all our partners to bring these transformative projects to life. We are proud of the positive impact these initiatives are making and remain committed to our role in promoting sustainable development worldwide.”
The recipients were chosen based on the SMART Criteria, which ensure that the partnerships are specific to the needs of SIDS, measurable and monitorable, feasible and accountable, resource-oriented and results-driven, with well-defined timelines for implementation and transparency by all stakeholders.
The official Awards ceremony is set to take place during the annual Global Multi-Stakeholder SIDS Partnership Dialogue on 10th July 2024, coinciding with the 2024 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development.
The UAE has always seen climate action as an opportunity to contribute practical solutions to a global problem that affects all countries while diversifying its economy and creating knowledge, skills, and jobs for future generations.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
