The UAE has signed three major agreements to promote sustainable development in Africa and Asia. These agreements focus on environmental protection, social growth, and economic development. They align with the UAE’s mission to improve well-being and address global challenges.
Revitalising Pasig River in the Philippines
Louise Araneta, First Lady of the Philippines, and Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, attended the signing of two agreements.
The first agreement supports the restoration of the “Pasig River” in Manila. Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, the Philippines’ Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, and Abdullah Al Qubaisi, Director-General of the Clean Rivers Foundation, signed the deal.
Dr. Al Dahak emphasised the strong UAE-Philippines partnership in environmental protection and climate action. She highlighted the UAE’s commitment to circular economy solutions, waste prevention, and socio-economic development in the Philippines.
Improving Waste Management in Indonesia
The second agreement creates a partnership between the Clean Rivers Foundation and the “Borealis and Systemiq” initiative. This initiative aims to improve waste management, increase plastic recycling, manage organic materials, and reduce pollution in Indonesian rivers and marine environments.
Deborah Bacchus, CEO of the Clean Rivers Foundation, and Benjamin Dixon, Partner at “Systemiq and Borealis,” signed the agreement.
Al Qubaisi stated, “The UAE’s water agenda and global environmental goals guide our work. Clean Rivers is proud to support Indonesia’s transformative waste management project in Banyuwangi.”
He expressed confidence that this project—the first of its kind in Indonesia—will inspire similar initiatives and improve the lives of families dependent on rivers.
Empowering Entrepreneurs in Africa
The third agreement supports 1,000 African entrepreneurs through financial aid, training, and collaboration. The Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Works, an affiliate of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, partnered with the Tony Elumelu Foundation to create this initiative.
Alia bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, attended the signing. Mohammed Haji Al Khouri, Director-General of the Khalifa Foundation, and Tony Elumelu, Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, formalised the agreement.
Al Khouri reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s humanitarian values. He said, “This agreement supports African entrepreneurs, fosters innovation, and drives economic growth for a sustainable global economy.”
These agreements highlight the UAE’s dedication to sustainability, environmental protection, and economic empowerment, reinforcing global partnerships for a better future.
Further Africa
