Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim has underscored the significance of the Climate Smart Resilient Islands (CSRI) initiative in finding sustainable solutions to the challenges confronting small island countries and in increasing awareness about climate change. He made these remarks at the opening of Maldives' first side event at the International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Conference. Organised by the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy, the event focused on advancing SIDS goals through the CSRI initiative, titled "From Ambitions to Practice."
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu attended the side event, which featured esteemed panelists including Special Envoy for Climate Change Ali Shareef, Director General of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme Sefanaia Nawadra, and Secondary Director of Climate Resilience Ministry of Climate Resilience, the Environment, and Renewable Energy Titus Antoine.
In his opening address, Minister Thoriq emphasised the pivotal role of the CSRI Initiative in addressing the unique challenges faced by small island nations while enhancing awareness about climate change. He urged environmentally sensitive small island countries to collaborate closely in this endeavor.
The Fourth SIDS Conference, held once every decade, adopts the theme "Charting the Course Towards Resilient Prosperity" this yearf. This gathering brings together leaders of SIDS countries and relevant stakeholders from diverse sectors to collaborate towards a sustainable, prosperous, and vibrant future for developing small island nations.