NEW YORK – The UAE has declared this year as the Year of Sustainability, themed “Today for Tomorrow,” to honor our shared responsibility to both present and future generations who deserve to live in safe and prosperous environments, stated Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation.
“We also aim to honor and build upon the efforts of our founding fathers, who strived for our nations’ advancement. Our duty is to protect our planet, our natural resources, and our cultural heritage,” Al Hashimy elaborated during her address at the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
During her speech, Al Hashimy touched on pressing issues arising during a period when the global system is grappling with intensifying crises. She shed light on the existential challenges the world faces today, from armed conflicts and climate disasters to the pervasive waves of extremism, racism, and hate speech.
“Fortunately, now more than ever, we have the capability to surmount these challenges. We’ve achieved unprecedented advancements and possess the technology to devise innovative solutions to intricate problems,” she remarked.
In her statement, Al Hashimy emphasized the significance of upholding an international order rooted in respect for state sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. “Opting for force over political solutions and fostering an ‘us versus them’ mindset is counterproductive. Such an approach only breeds chaos and undermines our diplomatic instruments. It’s crucial to respect diversity, political variances, and developmental disparities.”
Highlighting the importance of peaceful resolutions, she noted, “Our region is plagued by armed conflicts and extremist ideologies. The UAE is steadfast in its efforts to mitigate tensions and advocates for dialogue and diplomacy as means of resolution. We’re committed to fostering a new paradigm to bolster economic collaboration among regional countries, benefiting both their economies and their people, and enhancing regional stability and prosperity.”
Al Hashimy reiterated the UAE’s call for Iran to cease its occupation of the islands of Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa. “Our rightful claim to these islands remains unwavering, and time won’t diminish our sovereignty over them. We remain resolute in seeking a resolution, be it through direct negotiation or the International Court of Justice.”
Addressing environmental concerns, Al Hashimy spoke about the climate, food, energy, and water crises, emphasizing the pivotal moment we’re at concerning climate change. “To maintain the 1.5°C target, transformative change is imperative. While some might deem this unattainable, the UAE begs to differ.”
She also mentioned the UAE’s upcoming role as host of the 28th session of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28). “The conference’s action plan will center on four primary objectives: expediting a fair and systematic transition in the energy sector, advancing climate financing mechanisms, and enhancing individual livelihoods and protection within a transparent and inclusive framework.”
On water scarcity, she said, “The UAE is investing significant efforts to pioneer new models of international collaboration in water management, prioritizing this challenge for collective action. By collaborating with global partners, the UAE aims to devise effective solutions. Today, the UAE’s Foreign Ministry released a report, which we anticipate will aid in this endeavor.”
Highlighting the importance of collective action, Al Hashimy stated, “It’s not merely an option anymore; it’s an imperative. The decisions we make today will shape the trajectory for years to come. Peace is our chosen path, development our journey, and a stable future our end goal. We recognize the potential in our youth, the leaders of tomorrow who will amplify our accomplishments and herald a brighter future.”
Concluding her address, Al Hashimy extended the UAE’s heartfelt condolences to the governments and citizens of the Kingdom of Morocco and the State of Libya in light of the recent calamities they endured.