Small Island Developing States serve as a testament to the challenges confronting our world: from the threats of rising sea levels to issues of food and water scarcity; from the increasing intensity of natural disasters to the disproportionate burden of global crises.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of visiting numerous small island nations.
Whether in Vanuatu or Barbuda, I have witnessed firsthand the pressing challenges you encounter and how they can exacerbate to a daunting and existential extent.
I have also witnessed the leadership of islands.
Continuously, you lead the charge in addressing climate change, safeguarding biodiversity, and overseeing a significant portion of the global ocean, which plays a vital role in combating climate change and biodiversity loss.
Your exemplary actions inspire us to strive for greater goals, and your voices spur urgent action, as demonstrated at C.
O.
P.
15 in Paris, and later at C.
O.
P.
26 in Glasgow, and beyond.
In addition to the remarkable leadership of your nations, I am heartened by the growing support from the international community for S.
I.
D.
S.
Many of you are part of the Commonwealth, which has facilitated the mobilization of $310 million in climate finance for our small island members since 2016.
The Sustainable Markets Initiative, established in 2020, is dedicated to promoting green economic growth, with its corporate members committing over $9 trillion globally for climate and nature investments in carbon mitigation, conservation, and restoration.
These members are also exploring innovative ways in which insurance can contribute not only to disaster recovery but also to bolster investments in resilience and sustainability in vulnerable countries.
Collaboration among you all is essential for pooling projects to achieve the scale necessary for companies to invest in these solutions.
The Bridgetown Initiative has served as a call for transformation in the international financial system.
Nevertheless, Ladies and Gentlemen, you are well aware that there is still much ground to cover, and through collective effort, we can forge new partnerships to attract investments that could bring sustainable and resilient prosperity to all.
As leaders, you hold the power to inspire practical, tangible actions and ensure the future of our precious planet.
I commend the government of Antigua and Barbuda, along with the United Nations, for organizing this conference, and the Alliance of Small Island States for its steadfast support.
I hope to see as many of you as possible at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa later this year.
Until then, I wish you fruitful discussions ahead.
The challenges before you are of utmost importance.
Your future is our future.
Our islands, our oceans, our planet, and ultimately, all of us, require bold and resolute action.