New york: The Gulf Group at the United Nations has urged immediate and coordinated global action to advance the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda by turning agreed commitments into tangible support for developing nations. Faisal Al Enezi, Minister Plenipotentiary, Kuwait's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, made the call on behalf of the Group during the High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al Enezi warned that only 17% of the SDG targets have been achieved, while others remain stagnant or have regressed. He noted a global financing gap exceeding USD 4 trillion and stressed that challenges such as rising inequality, mounting debt, and climate change are hindering progress.
He emphasised the importance of strengthening international cooperation, solidarity, and multilateralism, and highlighted the GCC's commitment to the 2024 SDG review themes. Al Enezi also pointed out that while global marine reserves cover 8% of oceans, the Middle East, including the GCC, has protected 36% of key marine areas.
He reaffirmed the Gulf Group's commitment to joint action and called for equitable international partnerships to ensure sustainable development for current and future generations.