New york: Dana Imad Hamzah, Assistant Undersecretary for Sustainable Development at the Ministry of Sustainable Development, participated in the opening session of the ministerial segment of the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF 2025) at the UN Headquarters in New York from July 21 to 24, 2025. Ambassador Jamal Fares Al Ruwaiei, the Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the United Nations in New York, was also present.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the forum, under the auspices of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), provides a global platform for representatives from governments, international organizations, and civil society to share best practices in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The forum aims to tackle common challenges in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while reviewing national progress through Voluntary National Reviews presented by various countries.
This year's forum revolved around the theme: "Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for leaving no one behind." Keynote speeches were delivered by Ant³nio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, Phil©mon Yang, President of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, and Bob Rae, President of ECOSOC. The speakers emphasized the significance of strengthening international partnerships to expedite progress towards sustainable development goals, harnessing digital innovation, science, data, and local capacities while fostering inclusive global cooperation for a more prosperous future.
During the high-level General Debate titled "The UN at 80: Catalysing Change for Sustainable Development," Hamzah delivered Bahrain's national statement, reiterating the Kingdom's commitment to the 2030 Agenda and its goals. She highlighted Bahrain's endeavors to promote inclusive, science-driven sustainable solutions.
Hamzah outlined Bahrain's economic achievements, emphasizing strategic national plans and a diversified economy supported by digital infrastructure. She noted the role of Bahrain's inclusive financial system in establishing the country as a leader in financial technology, driven by innovation, digital transformation, and AI tools.
Hamzah also discussed Bahrain's progress in modernizing healthcare infrastructure and utilizing scientific innovation and data-driven technologies. She concluded by stressing Bahrain's belief in international partnerships for sustainable development and peace, citing Bahrain's active global engagement, including its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2026-2027 term.