President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stressed that global leaders must move beyond climate pledges and demonstrate tangible action and results.

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 growing climate challenges facing island nations, noting that the Maldives has long worked to develop bankable projects, integrate climate considerations into development plans and advocate for stronger international support.

He said weaknesses in the international financial system had forced vulnerable countries such as the Maldives to take on substantial debt to protect their people and islands.

The President called for urgent and coordinated global action, stressing that climate finance must be accessible and affordable, and reflect the specific circumstances of vulnerable countries. He also said vulnerability should not be assessed solely on income levels.

He highlighted the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States, which calls for greater international support, appropriate financing and sustainable development. He also welcomed the Bridge Initiative, which seeks to turn climate commitments into practical action.

As the Paris Agreement approaches its 20th anniversary, President Dr Muizzu urged all countries to remain committed to its implementation, stressing that leaders must be judged by the results they deliver rather than the promises they make.