President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stressed that development and climate resilience must go hand in hand for small island developing states (SIDS).

He made the remarks today at a high-level meeting on the 20th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, held on the sidelines of the COP31 Summit in Türkiye.

The President highlighted the financial challenges facing vulnerable island nations, noting that weaknesses in the international financial system have forced countries such as the Maldives to take on substantial debt to address climate threats.

He called for urgent and coordinated global action, stressing that climate finance must be accessible, affordable and tailored to the needs of vulnerable countries. He also emphasised that vulnerability should not be assessed solely on income levels.

Referring to the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS, President Dr Muizzu called for stronger international support, improved access to financing and greater investment in sustainable development. He also welcomed the Bridge Initiative, which aims to turn climate commitments into practical action.

As the Paris Agreement approaches its 20th anniversary, the President urged countries to demonstrate their commitment through tangible action and results rather than promises alone.