President Dr. Muizzu Urges SIDS to Lead as Beacons of Resilience and Innovation

President H.E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu called for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to take the lead and stand as beacons of resilience and innovation. He made these remarks while delivering the National Statement at the Plenary of the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4) in Antigua and Barbuda.

In his statement, President Dr. Muizzu emphasized that it is time for SIDS to believe in their ability to navigate the perils of development, stating, "Our vulnerabilities should not be our downfall; they should be our armor. Our rallying call." He outlined three ways in which SIDS can look to the international community for support: lowering borrowing costs, providing access to credit enhancement measures, and employing more creative financing solutions like retractable financing.

President Dr. Muizzu also stressed the importance of a coordinated and cooperative approach by the United Nations (UN) system, international development organizations, and private sector financiers. He urged SIDS to strengthen their institutions and work alongside the private sector to lead the way in resilience and innovation.

The President opened his statement by expressing solidarity with Papua New Guinea following a devastating landslide that resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives. He also highlighted the concerning developments in the Middle East, particularly condemning Israel's actions against the Palestinian people in Rafah, and called for collective solidarity with the people of Palestine.

The International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is a UN Conference held once every four years. President Dr. Muizzu is in Antigua and Barbuda for the Summit, where he will deliver key remarks at several events and meet with other leaders of Small Island Developing States.