The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reaffirmed its commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by signing a declaration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) at the World Government Summit (WGS) 2023 in Dubai. The agreement seeks to strengthen cooperation and support the industrial sector’s contribution to the nation’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and attaining net-zero by 2050.

The declaration was signed by His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and UNIDO Director-General, Dr. LI Yong, during the WGS 2023 event, which focuses on the theme “The Future of Governance in the Age of Technology.” The agreement outlines a series of actions aimed at promoting sustainable industrial development in the UAE, including the implementation of green technologies and practices, as well as the development of sustainable infrastructure.

Under the terms of the agreement, the UAE and UNIDO will work together to enhance the capacity of local institutions and businesses to adopt sustainable industrial practices, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote renewable energy. The partnership will also facilitate knowledge sharing and technical assistance in support of the UAE’s efforts to achieve the SDGs.

Speaking about the agreement, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi said, “We are delighted to partner with UNIDO to advance our shared goal of achieving sustainable industrial development in the UAE. As a nation, we are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and transitioning to a low-carbon economy, and this partnership will help us to achieve our ambitious targets.”

Dr. LI Yong, UNIDO Director-General, added, “This agreement underscores our shared commitment to promoting sustainable industrial development and accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy. By working together, we can harness the power of innovation and technology to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, said: “The joint declaration aligns with our leadership’s directives and MoIAT’s drive to promote continuous cooperation with relevant international organizations. It also supports the exchange of expertise and knowledge to help achieving the objectives of the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology.”

He added: “This declaration is part of our closer partnership with UNIDO. Last July, a joint taskforce was formed in the UAE, overseen by MoIAT and UNIDO. The taskforce will identify and develop joint activities and projects. Cooperation, joint efforts, and the exchange of expertise and knowledge with UNIDO will enhance the industrial sector’s contribution to the UAE’s efforts to achieve SDGs as well as its journey towards net zero. It will also improve local manufacturers’ competitiveness and their adoption of sustainable practices and advanced technology solutions.”

The UAE has made significant progress in its efforts to achieve the SDGs, including the adoption of a National Climate Change Plan, which aims to reduce the country’s carbon footprint by 23.5% by 2030. The country has also launched several initiatives aimed at promoting renewable energy and sustainability, including the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, one of the largest solar parks in the world.

The partnership with UNIDO is another important step in the UAE’s efforts to achieve the SDGs and become a global leader in sustainable development. With its strong commitment to innovation and technology, the UAE is well-positioned to drive progress in this area and create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.