Statement by H.E. Jeem Lippwe: the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) Interactive Dialogue with Permanent Representatives on the implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for the Asia-Pacific Small Island Developing States

Statement by H.E. Jeem Lippwe, Permanent Representative of the Permanent Mission of the Federated States of Micronesia to the United Nations on behalf of the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) Interactive Dialogue with Permanent Representatives on the implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for the Asia-Pacific Small Island Developing States 13:30 – 14:30

16 July 2025 United Nations Headquarters, Room S-1519

Excellencies, Distinguished colleagues,

We thank ESCAP and welcome this timely dialogue on the implementation of the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda. Such exchanges are essential for taking stock of our progress and identifying priorities moving forward.

For PSIDS, the ABAS speaks directly to the development realities we continue to confront, where climate impacts are intensifying, rising seas threatening our livelihoods, economic vulnerabilities are deepening, and access to resources remains limited despite our concerted efforts. Yet it also offers a comprehensive framework to address these challenges in ways that are grounded in our lived experience and priorities. ABAS provides clear guidance for our sustainable development efforts and aligns with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.

Over the past year, PSIDS has remained deeply committed to advancing sustainable development across ratifications in our region. We have made progress on national resilience strategies, taken forward early on global instruments such as the BBNJ Agreement, heightened global awareness of the threats posed by sea-level rise, and continued our collective push for the recognition and operationalization of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index, among other key efforts.

The Monitoring and Evaluation Framework for ABAS provides a critical tool for tracking progress and to facilitating evidence-based decision-making. We believe this framework should remain voluntary, sensitive to national contexts, and reinforce domestic ownership by building on existing mechanisms, rather than imposing additional reporting burdens. ABAS further calls attention to the need to address underlying national data capacity.

Moving forward, aligning the Framework with existing national reporting systems would minimize duplication and build institutional capacity. We value ESCAP’s continued partnership in supporting these implementation efforts, particularly through technical assistance and capacity building that enhances regional connectivity and trade facilitation for Pacific SIDS. Together with our partners and stakeholders, we can advance our shared commitment to sustainable development for all Small Island Developing States.

In closing, PSIDS remains fully committed to the implementation of ABAS and to working in partnership with ESCAP, regional bodies, and fellow SIDS to ensure that this agenda delivers real and lasting impact for our communities.

Thank you