Latest news with #UnitedNationsHigh-LevelPoliticalForum
Arab News
29-07-2025
- Politics
- Arab News
Saudi cabinet backs Palestinian statehood, welcomes France's recognition pledge
The Saudi cabinet reaffirmed on Tuesday the Kingdom's commitment to achieving lasting peace in the Middle East, voicing support for a high-level international conference on the peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France. The cabinet expressed hope the forum would accelerate international recognition of a Palestinian state and pave the way for implementing the two-state solution. It also welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron's recent pledge to recognize Palestine, urging other countries to take similar steps in support of Palestinian rights and regional stability. Chaired by King Salman, the cabinet condemned in the strongest terms the Israeli Knesset's call to impose control over the occupied West Bank and Jordan Valley. It stressed that such actions violate international law and undermine efforts to achieve peace. The cabinet also reviewed recent diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening ties with regional and international partners. It praised the outcomes of the Saudi delegation's visit to Syria, conducted under the directive of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, which led to the signing of 47 investment agreements worth nearly 24 billion riyals and the formation of a joint business council to boost cooperation between the two nations' private sectors. Minister of Media Salman Al-Dosari, in a statement to the Saudi Press Agency, highlighted the Kingdom's participation in the United Nations High-Level Political Forum. He noted that Saudi Arabia has recorded the fastest progress among G20 countries in sustainable development over the past decade, underscoring its leadership in international initiatives that promote prosperity and progress.
Daily Tribune
26-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
UAE Reinforces Global Role in Sustainable Development at UN Forum in New York
The United Arab Emirates reaffirmed its strong commitment to sustainable development on the world stage at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development held in New York. The country's delegation showcased a wide range of forward-looking initiatives, partnerships, and preparations for its next national review in 2026, with a clear message: human development and innovation are at the heart of its vision for the future. Representatives from several key UAE government bodies and organizations took part in the forum, including the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Noor Dubai Foundation, and Dubai Chambers. Their presence demonstrated the country's unified approach to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fostering global partnerships. Pushing Forward with Innovation and Collaboration Leading the delegation, His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chair of the National Committee on SDGs, emphasized the UAE's unique model of innovation and international cooperation. He introduced new initiatives like the 2045 XDGs Report, a vision for development beyond 2030, and GEEP, a program promoting global collaboration. 'We are committed to building a sustainable, inclusive future through innovation and strong partnerships,' HE Lootah said. 'Our efforts aim to tackle key global challenges like healthcare, economic development, biodiversity, and international stability.' He also confirmed that preparations are underway for the 2026 Voluntary National Review (VNR), which will track the UAE's progress on the SDGs. The review will involve input from government, business, and civil society, reflecting the nation's dedication to transparency and teamwork. A Global Platform for Shared Progress The UAE also used the forum as a platform to showcase its global leadership. Events like the "Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future" exhibition and special sessions by GEEP helped build connections with nearly 50 countries and six international organizations. The launch of the 2045 XDGs Report stood out as a major moment, offering fresh insights and a long-term roadmap to build on the momentum of the current SDGs. This aligns with the UAE's belief that sustainable development requires both innovation and international dialogue. Addressing Key Issues: Gender, Youth, and the Environment The UAE also hosted sessions that tackled some of today's most pressing topics, including gender equality, child welfare, and digital inclusion. Discussions emphasized the role of women's leadership in driving sustainable development and the need to close the digital gender gap. The Ministry of Interior presented the Green Shield Operation, a cross-border environmental initiative to protect biodiversity in the Amazon Basin — a clear sign of the UAE's global responsibility beyond its borders. Looking Ahead The UAE is also preparing to host the UN Water Conference in December 2026, continuing its efforts to champion environmental and water sustainability. Over the course of the forum, the UAE held 48 bilateral meetings and participated in sessions like Science Day, further reinforcing its position as a leader in global cooperation. A Message to the World The HLPF serves as the UN's central platform for reviewing progress on the SDGs. For the UAE, it was an opportunity to show that sustainable development is not just a goal, but a way of working—through innovation, inclusion, and international partnership.
Bangkok Post
24-07-2025
- Politics
- Bangkok Post
Thailand's SDG path shows gains
Thailand presented its third Voluntary National Review at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum in New York. It was a moment to take stock, not only of what has been achieved under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but of the work still to come. Thailand has shown consistent engagement in this process, having previously submitted reviews in 2017 and 2021, underscoring a clear message: sustainable development remains a national priority. Thailand's long-term planning reflects this ambition. The Sustainable Development Goals are integrated into the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan and the 20-Year National Strategy, ensuring coherence across policies and resilience across political transitions. At the core is Thailand's homegrown Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, which emphasises moderation, pragmatism and resilience in national development. This strong foundation is yielding results. Thailand tracks 236 out of 248 SDG indicators, one of the most comprehensive national monitoring efforts in the region. Health outcomes are especially notable. Universal health coverage reaches 99% of the population. Maternal mortality is under 30 per 100,000 births, child mortality stands at approximately 8 per 1,000 live births and skilled birth attendance has reached 100%. Malaria cases have dropped by 70%, and the country maintains one of Asia's most effective tobacco control regimes. Thailand's environmental ambition is also accelerating in alignment with the global shift towards clean, inclusive economies. Electric vehicle registrations rose by 684% in 2023, contributing to an estimated reduction of 344,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. Thailand has removed more than 780,000kg of waste from marine environments, including over 457,000kg through the "Bring Waste Back to Shore" initiative, which engages fishers to help restore ecosystems. To institutionalise its climate goals, including carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero emissions by 2065, Thailand is preparing a Climate Change Act to mandate emissions reporting and establish a Climate Change Fund. Through the Partnership for Action on Green Economy, the United Nations has supported Thailand in exploring carbon pricing tools -- including carbon taxes and cap-and-trade mechanisms -- and in building national capacity for green macroeconomic modelling. Thailand's progress extends to social equity. This year, Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise marriage equality, a landmark achievement for human rights. Financial inclusion has also deepened. In 2022, 90% of disadvantaged groups held a household bank account, compared to just 68% in 2012. Poverty rates have dropped from over 65% in the 1980s to under 4% today. Legal protections for migrant workers and stateless persons are expanding, with nearly half a million stateless individuals now eligible for permanent residency. Thailand established a formal National Referral Mechanism in 2022 to strengthen the identification, protection and support of trafficking victims, marking a significant step forward in regional efforts to institutionalise coordinated, survivor-centred responses. Thailand's leadership does not stop at home. At the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Dr Lalivan Karnchanachari led the national delegation and reaffirmed Thailand's multilateral commitment. The country is championing sustainability-linked bonds, advocating stronger action against illicit financial flows and calling for reforms that reflect the realities of developing countries. Its promotion of triangular cooperation -- working with partners to co-create and share knowledge -- underscores a vision of development rooted in shared responsibility. Still, the Voluntary National Review is not simply a celebration of progress. It reflects transparency and a willingness to face hard truths. As of 2024, 60% of SDG indicators show progress, 23% are regressing, and 17% remain unchanged. Poverty remains higher in provinces such as Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, at about 7.5%. More than half of Thailand's workforce remains in the informal sector, with women disproportionately affected. Productivity growth lags behind regional peers. Bridging the digital divide, strengthening lifelong learning -- especially in Stem and green skills -- and expanding protections for migrant workers remain critical challenges. The United Nations is proud to support Thailand on its journey towards achieving the SDGs. Together, we are driving progress across sectors such as climate action, the expansion of social protection, the localisation of development goals via Voluntary Local Reviews and areas such as child protection and migrant rights. Thailand's Voluntary National Review makes one thing clear: the country's progress is real and measurable. The path ahead is challenging, but with sustained commitment and shared action, the 2030 Agenda is still within reach. Thailand is not just reporting progress -- it's delivering it.
Mid East Info
24-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
UAE Showcases Global Leadership at UN Sustainable Development Forum, Commits to 2026 SDG Review - Middle East Business News and Information
Delegation highlights international partnerships, pioneering initiatives, and preparations for Voluntary National Review New York, USA – July, 2025: The UAE reiterated its strong commitment to global sustainable development at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025 in New York, emphasizing international partnerships and placing human progress at the center of its vision for the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and beyond. The message capped an active UAE presence at the forum, organized at the UN headquarters by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, and attended by global leaders and organizations. The UAE delegation comprised senior officials from key ministries, national committees, and leading organizations, including the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), Noor Dubai Foundation, and Dubai Chambers. The UAE's Pioneering Model: His Excellency Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, highlighted the UAE's innovative and collaborative approach to international development cooperation. He said: 'We presented models and initiatives that showcase pioneering national development initiatives and reflect the importance of strategic partnerships in accelerating SDG achievement. These included the 2045 XDGs Report that envisions development prospects for the next two decades, and GEEP. We held meetings that focused on continually enhancing multilateral collaborative action to support finding innovative solutions to challenges in health, economic growth, the future of work, biodiversity, and international stability.' He confirmed the start of intensive preparations for the 2026 Voluntary National Review (VNR), to monitor and assess progress toward the 2030 SDGs. This reflects the UAE's unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, comprehensive analysis of challenges and opportunities, and identifying future development priorities with participation from government, private sector, and civil society to ensure effort integration and vision unification, based on the UAE's ambitious vision for building a sustainable and inclusive future based on innovation, sustainability, and human development. HE Lootah noted that preparations are underway for the UAE's 2026 Voluntary National Review, underlining the nation's commitment to transparency, cross-sector collaboration, and a sustainable, inclusive future. The UAE is also preparing to host the UN Water Conference in December 2026, advancing global water sustainability. Strengthening Global Cooperation and Shaping Tomorrow The UAE reaffirmed its commitment to international cooperation and knowledge exchange, spotlighting initiatives that drive climate action, economic growth, and human development. Through high-profile events – including the 'Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future' exhibition – the delegation showcased innovative models and fostered dialogue with global partners. A special session by GEEP expanded the UAE's partnership network to nearly 50 countries and six international organizations, reinforcing its leadership in collaborative action. The launch of the 2045 XDGs Report , which outlines global development priorities beyond 2030 and builds on the momentum of the SDGs to address emerging challenges and opportunities, along with findings from a global survey, further underscored the UAE's active role in shaping sustainable development with forward-looking recommendations for the next two decades. Driving Innovation and Partnerships for Sustainable Progress The UAE delegation, in partnership with the UAE Consulate General in New York, showcased national leadership in advancing the SDGs through innovation and collaboration. The pivotal role of the Global Councils for SDGs – launched at the World Government Summit – was highlighted as a platform uniting leaders from government, international organizations, academia, and the private sector to accelerate progress through shared expertise. Sessions organized by the General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs focused on promoting gender balance and child welfare, addressing the digital gender gap, and strengthening women's leadership as essential drivers of sustainable growth beyond 2030. The UAE also hosted a roundtable on reimagining economic growth for people and the planet, and led discussions on economic diplomacy and integrating social and economic objectives for global stability. Additionally, the Ministry of Interior presented successful cross-border environmental initiatives, such as the Green Shield Operation, which aims to protect biodiversity in the Amazon Basin. Throughout the forum, the UAE strengthened international cooperation by holding 48 bilateral meetings and participating in high-impact Science Day activities. The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN's leading platform for SDG review and progress.
Al Etihad
24-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
UAE showcases global leadership at UN Sustainable Development Forum, commits to 2026 SDG review
24 July 2025 20:03 NEW YORK (WAM)The UAE reiterated its strong commitment to global sustainable development at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development 2025 in New York, emphasising international partnerships and placing human progress at the centre of its vision for the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and message capped an active UAE presence at the forum, organised at the UN headquarters by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, and attended by global leaders and UAE delegation comprised senior officials from key ministries, national committees, and leading organisations, including the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Investment, Government Experience Exchange Programme (GEEP), General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs, the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD), Noor Dubai Foundation, and Dubai Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange and Chair of the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, highlighted the UAE's innovative and collaborative approach to international development said, 'We presented models and initiatives that showcase pioneering national development initiatives and reflect the importance of strategic partnerships in accelerating SDG achievement. These included the 2045 XDGs Report that envisions development prospects for the next two decades, and GEEP. We held meetings that focused on continually enhancing multilateral collaborative action to support finding innovative solutions to challenges in health, economic growth, the future of work, biodiversity, and international stability.'He confirmed the start of intensive preparations for the 2026 Voluntary National Review (VNR), to monitor and assess progress toward the 2030 SDGs. This reflects the UAE's unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability, comprehensive analysis of challenges and opportunities, and identifying future development priorities with participation from government, private sector, and civil society to ensure effort integration and vision unification, based on the UAE's ambitious vision for building a sustainable and inclusive future based on innovation, sustainability, and human noted that preparations are underway for the UAE's 2026 Voluntary National Review, underlining the nation's commitment to transparency, cross-sector collaboration, and a sustainable, inclusive future. The UAE is also preparing to host the UN Water Conference in December 2026, advancing global water UAE reaffirmed its commitment to international cooperation and knowledge exchange, spotlighting initiatives that drive climate action, economic growth, and human development. Through high-profile events – including the 'Shaping Tomorrow: UAE Leadership for a Sustainable Future' exhibition – the delegation showcased innovative models and fostered dialogue with global partners. A special session by GEEP expanded the UAE's partnership network to nearly 50 countries and six international organisations, reinforcing its leadership in collaborative launch of the 2045 XDGs Report, which outlines global development priorities beyond 2030 and builds on the momentum of the SDGs to address emerging challenges and opportunities, along with findings from a global survey, further underscored the UAE's active role in shaping sustainable development with forward-looking recommendations for the next two UAE delegation, in partnership with the UAE Consulate General in New York, showcased national leadership in advancing the SDGs through innovation and collaboration. The pivotal role of the Global Councils for SDGs – launched at the World Government Summit – was highlighted as a platform uniting leaders from government, international organizations, academia, and the private sector to accelerate progress through shared organised by the General Secretariat of the National Committee on SDGs focused on promoting gender balance and child welfare, addressing the digital gender gap, and strengthening women's leadership as essential drivers of sustainable growth beyond UAE also hosted a roundtable on reimagining economic growth for people and the planet, and led discussions on economic diplomacy and integrating social and economic objectives for global the Ministry of Interior presented successful cross-border environmental initiatives, such as the Green Shield Operation, which aims to protect biodiversity in the Amazon Basin. Throughout the forum, the UAE strengthened international cooperation by holding 48 bilateral meetings and participating in high-impact Science Day activities. The HLPF on Sustainable Development is the UN's leading platform for SDG review and progress.
