President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu Addresses SIDS Global Business Network Forum at SIDS4 Conference

In a high-level address at the SIDS Global Business Network Forum, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu underscored the pivotal role of the private sector in the sustainable development of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The President expressed gratitude for the opportunity to address the esteemed gathering, acknowledging the valuable insights shared by representatives from various sectors including the private sector, civil society, and international financial institutions.

Emphasizing the significance of supporting the business community, President Muizzu called upon governments of SIDS to prioritize enabling environments for entrepreneurs and investors, both local and foreign. He highlighted the indispensable role played by the private sector in driving economic growth, innovation, and community empowerment, particularly within the context of SIDS.

The President's address encompassed three key calls to action. Firstly, he urged governments to promote investments in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and young entrepreneurs. He emphasized the need for facilitating cross-border trade, capacity building, and access to financing to foster the growth of these enterprises.

Secondly, President Muizzu underscored the importance of prioritizing inclusivity and empowering local communities. He emphasized that empowering local enterprises strengthens the connection between businesses and governments, facilitating common goals such as infrastructure development and disaster risk reduction.

Lastly, the President advocated for the creation of platforms to forge partnerships and share experiences. He highlighted the challenges faced by SIDS in accessing affordable financing for development and called upon financial institutions to prioritize actions that make finance more accessible and tailored to the needs of the private sector.

President Muizzu concluded his address by reiterating the importance of partnerships between governments and the private sector in achieving the goals outlined in the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS. He expressed optimism that collaboration between the public and private sectors would pave the way for resilient and inclusive prosperity in SIDS.

The President's remarks underscored the Forum's commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by SIDS and fostering sustainable development through effective collaboration between governments and the private sector.