The Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim, said that environmental protection and energy conservation efforts can deliver meaningful results only through sustained international assistance and partnerships.
Minister Thoriq represented the Maldives at the Consultation Towards the Review of Sustainable Development Goal 7 during the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development 2026. The discussion, held under the theme of tripling renewables, took place on the pre-assembly day of the International Renewable Energy Agency Assembly.
During his intervention, the Minister highlighted the importance of international cooperation in advancing environmental conservation and clean energy initiatives, particularly for small and vulnerable states. He noted that global partnerships play a critical role in supporting the implementation of renewable energy projects and long-term sustainability goals.
Key discussions during the engagement focused on regional energy transitions and the enabling factors required to support them, including grid development, energy planning, digital innovation, artificial intelligence, and access to finance. Participants also examined the role of renewables in areas such as agri-food systems, green industrialisation, and sustainable aviation fuels.
On the sidelines of the 16th session of the IRENA Assembly, Minister Thoriq held a high-level meeting with the United Arab Emirates Permanent Representative to IRENA, Nawal Al-Hosany. The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in renewable energy development, sustainable innovation, and long-term energy security.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding collaboration through IRENA, with an emphasis on advancing clean energy solutions that support climate resilience and sustainable development.
IRENA16 served as a preparatory engagement for the HLPF 2026, where member states are expected to advance discussions on policies related to the global energy transition. The Maldives has previously stated its intention to increase the share of electricity generation from renewable sources to 33 percent by 2028.
