In a compelling speech delivered at the United Nations (UN) High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Saudi Arabia called upon world leaders to embrace bold thinking and collaboration to realize the ambitious goals set for 2030. The speech, given by Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal Al-Ibrahim, emphasized the importance of addressing poverty, inequality, and promoting good health and education for all.
Challenges at the Midpoint:
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the international community halfway through the SDG agenda, Minister Al-Ibrahim stressed the significance of accelerating collective efforts to leave no one behind. The ministerial-level gathering aimed to assess progress, share experiences, and discuss challenges, making it a central platform for the follow-up and review of the SDGs.
Lessons Learned and Path to Success:
Reflecting on the journey since the first Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs), Minister Al-Ibrahim highlighted three critical lessons that can pave the way for solid achievements across various fields. Firstly, he emphasized the interconnectedness of global challenges and the need for collaboration to solve complex issues. Secondly, he underscored the importance of innovation and experimentation in driving economic change. Lastly, he called for prioritizing human capital development by investing in education, healthcare, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Saudi Arabia's Commitment and Initiatives:
Minister Al-Ibrahim outlined Saudi Arabia's momentous journey of transformation, with the SDGs deeply embedded in the nation's framework. The country demonstrated its recognition of global interdependencies through the Middle East Green Initiative, showcasing its commitment to environmental sustainability and renewable energy. Furthermore, the minister emphasized Saudi Arabia's commitment to human capital development through tangible actions such as expanding access to quality education, providing a safety net for those in need, and enhancing healthcare services.
A Call for Action:
Minister Al-Ibrahim stressed that passive reflection was no longer sufficient and called upon leaders to take active steps toward creating a world that future generations deserve. Saudi Arabia's contribution of $87 billion to international aid projects served as a testament to its commitment to combating global poverty and accelerating development.
The UN High-Level Political Forum provided an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to urge global leaders to embrace collaboration, innovation, and human capital development in pursuit of the 2030 SDGs. The kingdom showcased its commitment through initiatives like the Middle East Green Initiative and tangible actions aimed at transforming its society. With the call to action, Minister Al-Ibrahim emphasized the collective responsibility to create a world of sustainable development for generations to come.