Senior officials from the Maldives and the United Kingdom met in Malé to prepare for next month’s United Nations climate summit, signalling the island nation’s intent to expand its role in global environmental negotiations.
The consultation was convened ahead of the 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 30), which will take place in Brazil from 10 to 21 November. The meeting brought together Thoriq Ibrahim, the Maldivian Minister of Tourism and Environment, and Nicholas David Low, the British High Commissioner to the Maldives.
At the centre of the talks was the Maldives’ effort to strengthen its influence and participation in international climate action. The COP summit, recognised as the world’s largest forum on environmental issues, is viewed by Malé as a critical platform for advancing the concerns of small island states.
The discussions ranged from broad climate challenges to specific collaborative initiatives between the two countries, as well as matters of particular urgency to the Maldives. Officials underscored the government’s commitment to international programmes aimed at mitigating the harmful effects of climate change.
The exchange also allowed both sides to share perspectives on projects designed to preserve and sustain the Maldives’ natural resources, according to the Environment Ministry. In reaffirming their partnership, the two governments noted the importance of joint efforts to address climate change and strengthen environmental resilience.
According to the Environment Ministry, the consultations mark an important step in expanding the Maldives’ role in global climate negotiations while reinforcing the close partnership between the Maldives and the UK. The ministry added that the talks reflect the shared priority both nations place on environmental cooperation and their mutual commitment to sustainable development.