Low-carbon development now necessary, Maldives president says

President Mohamed Muizzu on Wednesday described the International Zero Carbon Island initiative as a crucial step forward in the global push for climate action.

He made these remarks at the launch event organised by Shandong Province, China, on the sidelines of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

President Muizzu acknowledged President Xi Jinping and the Chinese government's commitment to green and low-carbon development, as well as their continued support for the Maldives’ environmental efforts.

He highlighted China’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, praising it as an inspiring example of leadership and commending China’s role in advancing global climate action.

The president emphasised that low-carbon development is a necessity, given the escalating impacts of climate change.

He underscored the urgency of reducing emissions and protecting the environment, stressing that the Maldives and other vulnerable nations are determined to be active leaders in driving a sustainable future, rather than merely victims of climate change.

Highlighting the importance of multilateral cooperation, President Muizzu stated that the Maldives’ participation in global forums serves as a reminder that small island nations are committed to shaping a sustainable and resilient future. He affirmed that the Maldives would take control of its own destiny by embracing leadership in climate action.

He expressed confidence that the forward-thinking, low-carbon policies implemented will provide valuable insights and serve as a model for the Maldives and other island nations striving for sustainability and resilience in the face of climate change.

He stressed that climate action requires a collective effort and called on COP29 countries to come together to agree on a climate finance goal.