News DeskVienna, Austria – Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), chaired the 19th annual meeting of the heads of institutions of the Arab Coordination Group (ACG) under the theme “Partnerships for a Better Future.”
The meeting saw the participation of prominent organizations, including the Islamic Development Bank Group, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the Qatar Fund for Development, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, the Arab Gulf Program for Development (AGFUND), and the Arab Monetary Fund.
The discussions were centered on the group’s efforts to foster sustainable development in developing countries, covering key topics such as infrastructure, healthcare projects, food security, and clean energy initiatives. The meeting also reviewed strategies to address economic challenges, social issues, climate change, and food security in partner countries.
Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi highlighted the significance of the meeting as the Arab Coordination Group nears its 50th anniversary of sustainable development efforts. “Over these decades, we have achieved major milestones in economic and social progress. As we face contemporary global challenges, particularly the impacts of climate change, our commitment to promoting economic development remains steadfast. Now, more than ever, we must intensify our collaborative efforts across all fields to continue making a positive impact,” he stated.
Acknowledging the UAE’s leadership in promoting renewable energy projects in climate-vulnerable countries, Al Suwaidi emphasized the need to showcase ACG’s exceptional role in global sustainable development. He stressed the importance of improving ACG’s media communication and strengthening coordination among members to highlight their efforts effectively.
The meeting underscored the significance of collaborative efforts to tackle climate change, with contributions from group members supporting sustainable development projects. Additionally, the outcomes of COP 28 and preparations for the 29th session in Baku, Azerbaijan, scheduled for November 11 to 22, were discussed.
The participation of ACG in COP 16 of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) was also highlighted. The event, to be hosted by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh from December 2 to 13, aims to support projects combating desertification, reclaiming agricultural lands, and aiding small farmers to contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Arab Coordination Group continues to leverage diverse skills, qualifications, and experiences among its members, promoting knowledge exchange and innovative initiatives to support developing countries and advance sustainable development goals.
