Maldives Urges Global Action on Debt and Climate at China-led GDI Meeting

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to the Global Development Initiative (GDI), emphasizing the need for enhanced cooperation among developing nations to overcome shared economic and environmental hurdles. Speaking at a high-level GDI meeting hosted by China during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Vice President praised China's leadership in advancing the initiative. He noted that the longstanding development partnership between the Maldives and China has played a significant role in the nation's domestic growth. However, the Vice President issued a stark warning regarding the impact of unsustainable debt. He stated that mounting financial burdens are severely restricting the ability of developing nations to invest in critical areas, specifically climate resilience and other essential development priorities. Highlighting the acute vulnerability of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Vice President Latheef called for a more rigorous implementation of global climate commitments. With the COP31 climate summit on the horizon, he stressed that international promises must now be translated into tangible, meaningful action to protect fragile island ecosystems. Beyond climate and finance, the Vice President pointed to the transformative potential of science, technology, and innovation. He specifically cited artificial intelligence as a tool that could accelerate sustainable development if managed through global collaboration. To ensure that emerging technologies do not widen the gap between rich and poor nations, the Vice President called for increased international cooperation in capacity-building, knowledge-sharing, and technology transfer. He concluded his remarks by urging developing countries to maintain solidarity to build a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for all.