Ref: 2025/PR/91
Ambassador at large Dr Mohamed Fahmy Hassan delivered national statement at the General Debate of the Eighty-first session of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) being held in Bangkok, Thailand, from 21-25 April 2025.
In his remarks, he highlighted the close link between realising resilient and sustainable urban development, and achieving the development goals of the Maldives. Outlining President Dr Muizzu’s vision for Maldives to become a developed nation by 2040, he noted the work towards a short- and long-term development plans, which will capture the ground realities, including geographical barriers and structural challenges hindering equitable access to services. He then noted the strides made on the sustainable urbanization front, which includes the ratification of the Urban Development Act, and the plans to address the housing crisis.
He further highlighted the efforts to ensure regional connectivity and decentralization for sustainable urban development through the Greater Male’ Connectivity Project and expansion of the Velnana International Airport. He underlined the importance of opting the debt forgiveness for resilience building financing model to ensure there are enough resources for climate-resilient urban infrastructures and sustainable development. Concluding his remarks, he thanked ESCAP for their support in localising Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Maldives, and called for stronger regional cooperation on resilient and sustainable urban development, which reflects the needs of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
The theme of this year’ session is “Regional cooperation for resilient and sustainable urban development in Asia and the Pacific”. This session provides an opportunity to foster inclusive urban growth and promote steadfast action for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at all levels. Ambassador at large Dr Fahmy also deliberated on the opportunities and challenges to affordable housing at the UN-Habitat Side-event titled, Special Session on Ensuring Adequate Housing for All in Asia and the Pacific, as a panelist.
ENDS