President Simina’s statement at the Summit of the Future

New York, 23 September 2024

Statement by President Wesley W. Simina

Ladies and Gentlemen, Esteemed Colleagues, Distinguished Guests.

I bring warm greetings from the people of the Federated States of Micronesia. KAMORALE!

Micronesia has consistently voiced its concerns on the global stage, particularly in advocating for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in line with the 1.5 degrees Celsius pathway. We also champion initiatives to eliminate fossil fuel subsidies and transition away from the use of fossil fuels. This includes addressing non-CO2 emissions and short-lived climate pollutants in order to effectively combat the climate crisis, as these pollutants significantly contribute to global warming in the near term. By prioritizing their reduction, we can achieve more immediate temperature control, safeguard vulnerable communities, and enhance our efforts toward long-term climate goals.

While we embrace the Pact for the Future, we do have some concerns about the text as adopted. We would like to suggest that the United Nations ensures that the implementation of the Pact includes robust and lasting commitments to transition away from coal, oil, and gas in all sectors of society, aligning with the 1.5°C limit in the Paris Agreement.

Climate change poses an existential threat to the environmental stability,  peace and security of Micronesia. As rising sea levels and extreme weather events jeopardize our livelihoods and displace communities, it is imperative that we recognize the profound link between climate resilience and the survival of our people. We must foster international cooperation to address this climate crisis with urgency.

Our planet is at a critical point of no return. So, the time for action is now. We possess the tools, knowledge, and innovative spirit to combat climate change and protect our ecosystems. The Pact for the Future serves as a call to action, urging us to commit to ambitious climate targets and investments in renewable energy. Together, we must strive to create a green economy that prioritizes both our planet and our people.

The challenges we face transcend borders; they are global in nature. From public health to economic stability, our interconnectedness necessitates collaboration that goes beyond nationality and ideology. Let us forge partnerships, share resources, and establish frameworks for our collective resilience.

We have engaged in formal discussions since yesterday resulting in the adoption of the Pact. So each of us needs to dream boldly and act decisively in order to make it a reality. Therefore, our vision for the future must be crafted collectively—by leaders, innovators, and citizens alike. Let us empower the next generation with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

The Pact for the Future is crucial for the survival of the livelihoods and well-being of humanity, especially in Small Island Developing States like mine. We continue to face extreme challenges as a consequence of climate change, and our livelihoods stand on the brink of devastation. Therefore, I appeal to all of you to rally behind this Pact so that we can safeguard the future of our people and our world.

I thank you.