Meera Al Suwaidi presents Sustainable Development Committee’s progress report to IPU’s 147th General

At the IPU’s 147th General Assembly meetings in Luanda, Angola, Meera Sultan Al Suwaidi, Vice-President of the Standing Committee on Sustainable Development, presented the committee’s report on ‘Partnerships for climate action: Promoting access to affordable green energy, and ensuring innovation, responsibility and equity’. Al Suwaidi also discussed the upcoming Parliamentary Meeting at COP28 in Expo City Dubai, which is co-organised by the IPU and the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates. She emphasized the UAE’s dedication to environmental sustainability and finding practical solutions for sustainable economic growth.Al Suwaidi highlighted that the UAE is committed to building a sustainable future for future generations through the adoption of a green economy approach, which promotes sustainable economic, social, and environmental development. The committee also organized an expert hearing on the topic of global food security, where it was reported that over 345 million people will face high levels of food insecurity in 2023 due to conflict, climate extremes, economic shocks, and growing inequalities. The hearing focused on ways in which parliaments can contribute to transforming agrifood systems to make them more sustainable and resilient, and to provide affordable healthy diets for all.During the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in the United Arab Emirates, committee members will discuss a draft outcome document. Concurrently with COP28, a Parliamentary Meeting co-organized by the IPU and the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates will take place. The Committee will receive a briefing on logistical arrangements for the meeting and engage in an exchange of perspectives regarding the draft outcome document. The United Arab Emirates’ preparations to host COP28 were presented, highlighting their commitment to environmental sustainability and the implementation of practical and comprehensive solutions prioritizing sustainable economic prosperity. Additionally, the National Assembly of Angola has invited the 147th Assembly of the IPU and its associated gatherings to be held in Luanda, Angola, from Monday, 23 to Friday, 27 October 2023. During this Assembly, all IPU statutory bodies will convene, including the Governing Council, Standing Committees, Committees on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians and on Middle East Questions, as well as the Forum of Women Parliamentarians and the Forum of Young MPs. The Governing Council will also have the opportunity to elect a new IPU President during its session in Luanda.The General Debate will center on the overarching topic of Parliamentary action for peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16) and offer an opportunity for delegates to discuss, share perspectives, and mobilize parliamentary action in this field. The Assembly will approve resolutions on the urgent matter and on the topic addressed by the Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights titled Orphanage trafficking: The role of parliaments in reducing harm. The Assembly is anticipated to wrap up with the adoption of a final document on the overall theme of the General Debate.