Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives Dr. Mohamed Asim has discussed the important role of partnerships, leadership and innovation by Small Island States (SIDS) in responding to climate impacts and planning for sustainable futures.
The meeting was organised by Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), in partnership with the European Union and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
During Minister Asim's key note speech as the Chair of AOSIS, he reflected on the importance of partnerships for SIDS and stated that the support provided by the partners have facilitated the expansion of capacity of Small Islands to engage in international negotiations on climate change and sustainable development. Broadening engagement by AOSIS to issues of critical importance to SIDS such as conservation and sustainable use of the oceans and seas, he further highlighted.
The purpose of today's meeting was to provide a platform before the COP23 to acknowledge and showcase the leadership and innovation coming out of Small Island Developing States.