His Excellency Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef underscored the importance of thinking beyond the status quo to drive innovative climate solutions for those at the frontline of the climate crisis.
He made these remarks at the opening ceremony of the Blue Planet Alliance Fellowship Programme held in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Speaking as a special guest at the ceremony, the Vice President highlighted the unique vulnerabilities of small island nations like the Maldives, where the climate crisis has now become a lived reality. Despite the challenges, the he stressed the Maldives' continued commitment to climate leadership.
The Vice President noted the launch of the Maldives' Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) alongside the recently unveiled Energy Roadmap 2024-2033. This plan sets a bold target to generate 33 per cent of the country's electricity from renewable energy sources by 2028, marking a significant step towards energy transition and sustainability. He emphasised that this target represents a cornerstone of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's national agenda to reduce the nation's reliance on fossil fuels.
Framing the obstacles faced by small islands as catalysts for innovation, the Vice President praised the Blue Planet Alliance Fellowship Programme as a vital platform where island nations can share knowledge, develop innovative solutions, and coordinate global climate action. He noted that the Programme unites policy experts, utility leaders, and community-solution advocates who are collectively committed to advancing climate resilience and implementing clean energy solutions across island nations.
The Vice President concluded by encouraging fellows to think beyond technology and to focus on innovative policies and financing mechanisms that can create ripples across communities and influence global climate dialogues.