On her first day at COP29 – hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan –Minister for the Environment, Energy and Regeneration of the Grand Harbour Miriam Dalli, accompanied by Climate Ambassador Simone Borg, attended high-level events reaffirming Malta’s commitment to tackling climate challenges through innovative policies, regional collaboration, and youth empowerment.
Minister Miriam Dalli participated in the Youth Lead the Way – A Global Centre for Climate Mobility Event Series, where she praised youth as essential agents of change. The event, part of the Climate Mobility Youth Programme, showcased stories and solutions from youth representatives worldwide who are at the forefront of addressing the existential threats posed by rising sea levels and other climate impacts.
“You are not waiting for someone else to solve this issue; you are taking action to build resilience and push for change,” the minister told youths. She emphasised the importance of empowering youth to shape the global climate agenda, particularly in the face of growing risks and vulnerabilities associated with climate mobility.
Highlighting government’s efforts, Minister Miriam Dalli noted the establishment of the EU’s first Climate Action Authority, a pioneering initiative aimed at fostering innovation and enabling youth-led solutions to climate challenges. “We are working to give more space to youth to actively participate in political discourse, influence policy decisions, and engage in civic duties,” she added. She also called for global partnerships to safeguard the rights of communities threatened by climate impacts, particularly rising sea levels.
Later in the day, Minister Miriam Dalli attended the High-Level Ministerial Dialogue – Advancing International Cooperation for Climate Action and Energy Transition, organised by the Greek Ministry. Here, she outlined Malta’s unique challenges as a small Mediterranean island with limited land and resources, emphasising the need for strong regional collaboration to achieve equitable energy transitions. She also highlighted Malta’s renewable energy initiatives, including innovative offshore solar and wind projects, as well as its commitment to supporting Small Island Developing States (SIDS) through the Island for Islands initiative.
“The decisions we make today must lay the foundation for a more resilient and equitable tomorrow,” the minister concluded, underscoring Malta’s dedication to advancing climate action through cooperation and innovation.
COP29 is a crucial global forum bringing together leaders, experts, and advocates to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change. It continues to be a pivotal platform for transformative global climate solutions, with Malta playing an active role in shaping these critical discussions.
Photos: DOI/MEER
