“We cannot go back on the commitments we’ve made together, and we must stay focused on achieving a clean economic operation that leads to the goal of reducing global temperatures by 1.5 degrees, in line with the Paris Agreement,” emphasised Prime Minister Robert Abela. He made these remarks while addressing a High-Level Plenary Meeting of the United Nations during the General Assembly in New York.

The meeting, focused on rising sea levels, was also addressed by the President of the General Assembly, Dennis Francis, and UN Secretary-General, António Guterres. Highlighting that this phenomenon poses a real threat, including to the Mediterranean region, Prime Minister Abela acknowledged that even if countries worldwide adhere to plans to counter global warming, the issue of rising sea levels will remain a significant challenge. He stressed that collective action is crucial, as this is a threat to humanity as a whole.

The Maltese Prime Minister pointed out that this challenge impacts everyone, including economically. He underlined that small nations, particularly islands like Malta, are on the front line of facing this issue more immediately. Abela noted that during Malta’s current two-year term as a Non-Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council, it has placed climate change, specifically the rise in sea levels, at the forefront of its agenda. He expressed his satisfaction that Malta has played a key role in ensuring this issue remains a top priority for the United Nations.

Dr. Abela reiterated Malta’s commitment to advancing serious discussions on tackling rising sea levels. “We must act together today, not tomorrow,” the Prime Minister urged. He emphasized the need for a strong legal framework at the international level to address this phenomenon, especially given the varying interests of different countries.”

#MaltaDaily