“Engine of change” key to the Sustainable Development Goals

The workshop took place recently, ahead of the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, which will be held in New York from July 8 to 17, under the theme “Strengthening the 2030 Agenda and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: effectively delivering sustainable, resilient and innovative solutions.”

There, business leaders will present ideas discussed during a workshop in Dubai that highlighted the role of the private sector in achieving SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 13 (Climate Action), 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Executives from over 80 companies attended the workshop to share best practices, exchange knowledge and present solutions and recommendations that support the SDGs.

Abdullah Nasser Lootah, Chairman of the National Committee for the Sustainable Development Goals, said: “The UAE’s decision to extend the Year of Sustainable Development to 2024 reflects the commitment of its leaders to promote sustainable practices in society, which directly supports national efforts to achieve the SDGs. Achieving the SDGs can only happen through a collective effort, so strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors is crucial for a more sustainable and prosperous future.”

Eng. Waleed Salman, UAE Board Chair of the UN Global Compact Network, commented: “Our joint commitment to the SDGs underscores the importance of engaging and consulting with the private sector, which is a key driver of transformative change, especially through innovation. In this sense, UAE businesses are uniquely positioned to lead the way, demonstrating how sustainable business practices can drive global progress and contribute to a brighter future for all.”

Other workshop participants included Anita Lebiar, head of the Middle East, Eastern Europe and Central Asia at the UN Global Compact, Berangere Boell, UN Resident in the United Arab Emirates, Omar Khan, head of the Center for Business Studies and Research at the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, and Mark Esposito, professor of public policy at the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government and faculty member at the Harvard Center for International Development at Harvard Kennedy School.

Participants took part in a roundtable to discuss the results of the survey, in which local businesses were asked about their experiences in adopting the SDGs, including challenges, successful initiatives and best practices. (ANI/WAM)

This report is automatically generated from ANI news service. ThePrint is not responsible for its content.