DILI, 28 may 2024 (TATOLI) – Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão called on all States to deliver on their commitments to support Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to achieve sustainable development.
Prime Minister made the comments on the occasion of the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) with the theme: “Charting the course toward resilient prosperity” in Antigua and Barbuda.
Gusmão urged industrialized nations to support the SIDS in the fight against climate change and its impacts.
Prime Minister highlighted that climate change which was caused by the industrialized world has created a global emergency that threatens the existence of poor and vulnerable nations the most: “Every day we hear the developed world talk about the importance of a ‘rules-based global order’ governed by international law. But it is this same global order that perpetuates inequity and exploitation.
“We watch as the developed world ignores international law whenever it suits them – and it suits them a lot. This includes promises that have been made to support developing countries, particularly commitments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Paris Agreement, and achieving sustainable development,” said the Prime Minister.
The 2023 Special Report of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals reveals that half of the SDGs are not on track to meet their implementation targets, with 30 percent either stalled or in reserve. This includes critical issues such as poverty, hunger eradication, and climate change.
He said three decades ago, the United Nations recognized the unique challenges faced by SIDS and committed to assisting their sustainable development: “Since then, we have adopted three frameworks for action: The Barbados Program, the Mauritius Strategy, and the Samoa Pathway. This week, we will adopt a new blueprint to complement the previous commitments. Timor-Leste supports these instruments and welcomes the new blueprint’s adoption. However, these commitments are meaningless without effective implementation and the necessary financial allocations.”
“Our presence here demonstrates our collective commitment to addressing the challenges facing Small Island Developing States. I believe that together we are not “small”. Together, with a shared vision and ambition, we are “Big Ocean States” working for the resilient prosperity of our people,” said Gusmão.
He said: “We know that we are not alone in our struggle. We are only one of the many SIDS that face the overwhelming task of sustainable development.”
Gusmão reiterated that all the initiatives require cooperation and support from international friends and partners.
Prime Minister concluded his remarks by urging SIDS to ensure that all commitments are translated into practical and tangible action.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
