The UAE and the United Nations (UN) have discussed strengthening collaboration across energy, sustainability, and water agendas in a meeting focused on enhancing coordination on international sustainability initiatives.
Abdulla Balalaa, UAE Assistant Minister for Energy and Sustainability Affairs, met with Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, to review areas of collaboration and explore ways to enhance coordination on global sustainability initiatives.
The discussions covered ongoing cooperation between both sides in advancing practical partnerships, innovative solutions, and initiatives aimed at accelerating progress on global sustainable development goals.
Both sides also reviewed preparations for the United Nations Water Conference 2026, which the UAE will co-host with the Republic of Senegal in Abu Dhabi from 8th to 10th December 2026.
The conference is expected to serve as a global platform to support implementation efforts, mobilize partnerships and financing, and strengthen the role of water within the sustainable development agenda. It will also focus on converting political commitments into practical initiatives and long-term cooperation frameworks.
During the meeting, Abdulla Balalaa reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to working closely with the United Nations and international partners to support the success of the 2026 conference and its outcomes.
Balalaa stated that the UAE remains open to cooperation in water-related investments and initiatives, including water resilience, innovation, sustainable water management, and practical solutions addressing global challenges.
HE Abdulla Balalaa also emphasised that water remains central to sustainable development, climate resilience, food security, and economic growth, highlighting the need for strengthened multilateral cooperation involving governments, international organisations, financial institutions, the private sector, and other stakeholders.
The meeting reflected the continued partnership between the UAE and the United Nations and their shared commitment to advancing practical cooperation in support of global sustainability priorities and Sustainable Development Goal 6.
