New York, 13th November 2024 – The Vice President of Seychelles, Mr. Ahmed Afif, alongside Minister Flavien Joubert, met with United Nations Secretary General Mr. António Guterres and delegations from Samoa and Tuvalu to discuss climate resilience efforts and funding access for island nations.

During the meeting, Vice President Afif outlined Seychelles' comprehensive actions to counter climate change impacts, highlighting the country’s leadership in environmental protection. Seychelles has already surpassed the UN’s 30x30 conservation goals, with over 30% of its marine area and 50% of its land mass under protection since 2020. Additionally, Seychelles achieves a negative net emission rate, absorbing more carbon than it emits.

Vice President Afif emphasized the urgent need for developed nations to unlock climate adaptation funds, essential for nations like Seychelles to safeguard their ecosystems and infrastructure. He proposed that COP29 require the release of these funds, which would allow Seychelles to accelerate coastal protections and undertake necessary infrastructure relocations—efforts that will require approximately USD 30 million in immediate funding.

Mr. Guterres expressed his support, affirming the importance of immediate funding access for vulnerable nations. He pledged that the UN would advocate for financial commitments at COP29 to enable island nations like Seychelles to achieve their climate resilience objectives.

This collaboration underscores the shared commitment to a sustainable future, with Seychelles leading by example and calling for actionable support from the international community