India bats for stable maritime zones, continuity of statehood for island and coastal states

New York: Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Sibi George, welcomed the adoption of the United Nations Declaration on Sea Level Rise on Friday, emphasizing India's ongoing initiatives dedicated to coastal resilience, mangrove preservation, and disaster-resilient infrastructure.

Addressing the 'High-Level Plenary Meeting on Addressing the Existential Threats Posed by Sea Level Rise' during the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the senior Indian diplomat stressed the critical need for equity and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and their respective capabilities. Furthermore, he highlighted the vital role played by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the preservation of stable maritime zones, and the legal continuity of statehood for vulnerable island and coastal nations.

The ministry added, “He welcomed the adoption of the UN Declaration on Sea Level Rise and highlighted India’s efforts on coastal resilience, mangrove conservation and disaster-resilient infrastructure. He reaffirmed the importance of equity and CBDR-RC, and underscored the importance of UNCLOS, stable maritime zones and continuity of statehood for island and coastal states.”

Earlier on Thursday, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Sibi George, attended the Peacebuilding Commission Ministerial meeting focusing on 'National Ownership in Practice: Strengthening Inclusive State Institutions through International Peacebuilding Support' on the sideslines of the UNGA, where he reiterated the fundamental importance of national ownership.

The MEA further stated, “India has extended tens of billions in grants, concessional credit, and capacity-building, including through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund, with priority for LDCs and SIDS countries.”

In addition to these engagements, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Sibi George, participated in the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Ministerial meeting.

Underscoring the significance of this diplomatic interaction, the MEA posted on