1 November 2011, New York; The Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Maldives to the United Nations, Ms. Thilmeeza Hussain, delivered a statement today at the Second Committee of the UN on the issue of Sustainable Development. The Second Committee of the UN focuses on issues of economic growth and development, financing for development, globalization and interdependence and sustainable development.
The session began by the presentation of a number of United Nations reports on sustainable development, climate change, disaster reduction, desertification, biological diversity, sustainable mountain development and the promotion of new and renewable sources of energy, among others. The reports highlighted the progress that has been made in these areas as well as issues that still require international attention.
In her statement, the Deputy Permanent Representative reiterated that Small Island Developing States have been recognized by the international community as a special case for sustainable development. She called for UN Rio+20 Conference on Environment and Development to be held next year in Brazil to ensure that the global community adequately addresses the unique sustainable development challenges faced by SIDS.
She also highlighted the importance of oceans to both the fishery and tourism industries in the Maldives, and in this regard, she addressed the issues of over fishing, protection of coral reefs and ocean acidification.
The DPR once again stressed the importance of addressing climate change, as it is a threat to Maldives development, security and very existence. She also reiterated Maldives commitment to dedicate a minimum of 2% of government revenues to renewable energy investments.
Statements were also made by a number of other delegations, as well as a number of specialized UN agencies.
