Maldives' future will not be determined by climate vulnerability: President Muizzu

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has assured that the islands and people of the Maldives will be protected from the dangers of sea level rise, stating that the country's future will not be determined by climate vulnerability. Speaking at a session held by the UN Global Center for Climate Mobility (GCCM) on increasing coastal resilience in connection with sea level rise, at the COP 31 international climate change conference in Turkey attended by world leaders, the President described sea level rise as a challenge to development and a direct threat to the Maldives' survival. The President said the islands of the Maldives are not merely pieces of land but places that symbolise the homes, history and identity of Maldivians. He said that however small a loss of territory may be, its impact would fall on sovereignty, heritage and the future path, and that protecting the right of Maldivians to live on their islands is among the nation's most important priorities. Highlighting the Maldives' efforts, the President said that alongside protecting the shoreline, the government is working to safeguard the reefs and lagoons that naturally defend the coast. He also said communities must receive the data and financial resources needed to prepare for climate change at island level. Referring to national projects, the President said Hulhumalé is a strategically reclaimed and developed area and a strategic investment in the Maldives' climate security. He said Rasmalé is similarly being developed higher than projected sea level rise, as a low-carbon, renewable-energy-powered eco city. He said these projects are linked to the vision of transforming the Maldives into a fully developed country by 2040, and stressed that climate resilience must be built into development rather than addressed only after disasters. Calling for situations in which populations would have to be relocated due to climate change to be included in climate plans, the President said climate finance must be adequate, predictable and easily accessible. He said assistance for adapting to climate change must be delivered as grant aid, and that it is not charity but a matter of climate justice. The President assured that he will remain steadfast in protecting the islands of the Maldives, so as to ensure future generations the opportunity to live, build and progress on the land of their forefathers.