His Excellency Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef emphasised the Maldives' dedication to sustainable ocean stewardship and advocated for immediate reforms in international climate finance during his address at the Honolulu International Forum (HIF), a prestigious platform organised by the Pacific Forum.
Commending the Pacific Forum for its five decades of fostering strategic stability and policy dialogue in the Indo-Pacific, the Vice President spoke of the Maldives' deep connection to the ocean. He noted the nation's vulnerability to the escalating impacts of climate change such as coral bleaching, storm surges, and sea level rise.
The Vice President further highlighted national efforts and reaffirmed the Maldives' commitment to the Blue Economy through sustainable fisheries, marine conservation, and ecosystem-based coastal management. However, he stressed that these efforts require adequate and sustainable climate financing.
Calling for meaningful reform, the Vice President urged the international community to move beyond GDP-based assessments and adopt development frameworks that reflect the unique vulnerabilities and needs of small island developing states. He also encouraged innovative financing approaches, including concessional instruments and climate-linked debt solutions.
Concluding his remarks, the Vice President highlighted the inseparable link between the Blue Economy and climate finance, calling for collaborative international efforts to safeguard the nation's heritage, livelihoods, and ensure a resilient future.
The Honolulu International Forum, held monthly, facilitates discussions on major political, economic, and security issues in the Indo-Pacific, bringing together experts, policymakers, and practitioners.
