VP Highlights Maldives’ Climate Leadership and SIDS Priorities i

Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef has highlighted the Maldives’ priorities on climate resilience, sustainable development and strengthening the interests of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) during a meeting with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81) in New York.

During the meeting, Vice President Latheef emphasized that climate change remains a reality affecting the Maldives and its development, while expressing appreciation to Secretary-General Guterres for his continued advocacy on climate action and issues concerning SIDS.

The Vice President outlined the Maldives’ key priorities at this year’s General Assembly, including strengthening climate resilience, promoting sustainable financing and development, advancing the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS), and ensuring that the priorities of SIDS receive greater attention within the international community.

He also highlighted the importance of United Nations reform as part of efforts to strengthen international cooperation and ensure that the concerns of vulnerable countries are effectively represented in global decision-making.

Secretary-General Guterres expressed solidarity with the Maldives and acknowledged the particular challenges faced by the country due to climate change.

He reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting stronger global climate action and working closely with the Maldives to address the impacts of climate change.

The two leaders also exchanged views on recent regional developments, including the situation in Palestine.

Climate change has remained a key priority of the Maldives’ engagement at the United Nations, particularly given the country’s geographical vulnerability to rising sea levels and other climate-related impacts.

As a Small Island Developing State, the Maldives has consistently advocated for stronger international cooperation, climate resilience and greater support for SIDS in achieving sustainable development.

The Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS, adopted in 2024, sets out international priorities for addressing the unique development challenges faced by small island states.

The Vice President’s meeting with the UN Secretary-General comes as the Maldives continues to advance its climate and sustainable development priorities at the international level, while strengthening cooperation with the United Nations and other international partners.