Climate disasters do not wait for political negotiations- Vice President

Vice President His Excellency Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef emphasised that climate disasters do not wait for political negotiations, intensifying storms do not align with economic cycles, and rising temperatures do not recognise borders. He made these remarks while delivering his keynote address at the Climate Change Forum on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2025.

Speaking at the forum, the Vice President deliberated that mitigating climate impacts and managing crises requires proactive leadership. He expressed it is time for major economies to align their actions, honour their climate commitments, and recognise that global stability relies on trust, not individual actions.

Vice President asserted climate considerations must now be central to every government decision. He emphasised the impact on the climate and environment should be the first question before making any decision, whether social, economic or financial. He further called on the international community not just for pledges but for action.

In his keynote address, the Vice President highlighted the challenges that the Maldives has faced recently due to climate change. He stated that addressing and mitigating these impacts is an immediate priority, and the people of the Maldives are taking decisive actions. He emphasised the ambitious goal His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced at COP28, which aims to generate 33 per cent of the country's electricity from renewable sources by 2028. He added through initiatives like the Energy Roadmap 2024 to 2033, the Maldives transitioning to renewables, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and enhancing energy security.

Her Excellency Amna Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and HIs Excellency Max Andonirina Fontaine, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, Government of the Republic of Madagascar attended the forum alongside the Vice President. He is accompanied by a high-level delegation of the Maldivian Government at the forum.