Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Mohamed Asim, hosts a reception for the Ministers and delegates to the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) Meeting

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Mohamed Asim, hosts a reception for the Ministers and delegates to the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) Ministers Meeting on the Initiative for Renewable Island Energy (IRIE).

At the event, Minister Asim, spoke at length about the significance and importance of island nations and their friends working together for the realisation of shared solutions for the global challenges of our time.

Reflecting on the journey that island nations have taken, since the first meeting of small states held in the Maldives in 1989, he stated that it was the “island way” to not give up, and to “make the best of what we have, while demanding what we deserve”. He also highlighted that island nations have led the way, proposing new ideas, for our common shared destiny.

Minister Asim further highlighted the importance of ensuring that the unique, distinct voice of islands, shaped by their unique experiences are represented, and heard in all decision-making forums, including the highest decision-making body of the United Nations – the Security Council.

The Initiative for Renewable Island Energy was initiated by the Maldives, in its capacity as Chair of AOSIS, in partnership with International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The primary objective of IRIE is to enhance AOSIS political coordination and outreach to development partners with a view to mobilising the resources – finance, technology, and capacity building – required for a rapid transition to renewable energy systems in SIDS. The meeting is attended by 13 energy and environment ministers of AOSIS.