Tanzania urges stronger global partnerships in climate action
NEW YORK: TANZANIA has emphasised the need for global and regional collaboration to address critical issues such as climate change, peace and equitable access to socio-economic opportunities in the digital age.
Representing President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan at the plenary meeting of the Summit of the Future during the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) in New York, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa urged the international community to fulfil its commitments regarding climate finance, technology transfer and global cooperation.
Speaking on Sunday at the summit, Mr Majaliwa underscored Tanzania’s commitment to contributing to global efforts aimed at sustainable development.
He stressed that the challenges posed by climate change and ongoing geopolitical conflicts require collective global responses. “Tanzania believes that global and regional partnerships are vital for achieving our shared goals. No nation can tackle global issues alone; therefore, multilateral cooperation is critical,” said Mr Majaliwa.
He further reiterated that global efforts must prioritise inclusivity, equity and sustainability to ensure that no nation or individual is left behind.
The Prime Minister urged developed nations to take decisive actions in reducing carbon emissions, protecting biodiversity and supporting adaptation efforts, particularly in developing countries like Tanzania, which bear the brunt of climate change despite contributing minimally to its causes.
He also called for regional and multilateral partnerships to assist in the successful implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly in support of the world’s poorest nations.
Tanzania, as part of its commitment to this agenda, has been actively engaged in initiatives that contribute to climate action and environmental sustainability.
Mr Majaliwa also highlighted the need for reforming the United Nations Security Council to better reflect today’s global realities.
He stressed that all countries, regardless of size or influence, must have a voice in shaping global governance.
He noted that Tanzania stands firmly behind multilateralism, where international laws and institutions are respected and smaller nations are given a meaningful role in decision-making processes.
“Tanzania reaffirms its commitment to the UN Charter and calls for a multilateral approach where international law is upheld and all countries, regardless of size, have an equal say in shaping global governance,” Mr Majaliwa said.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged the transformative potential of the digital revolution in bridging gaps in access to education and economic opportunities.
However, he cautioned that if not managed properly, the digital era could exacerbate existing inequalities.
In this regard, he urged world leaders to ensure that the benefits of digital technology are shared equitably and that meaningful internet access is provided to the more than one-third of the global population still without it.
He expressed support for the Global Digital Compact, which was set to be adopted at the Summit of the Future.
The compact aims to establish a binding framework for the ethical use of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) while ensuring data privacy and universal digital access.
“The Global Digital Compact is essential for ensuring that all nations can share in the benefits of the digital revolution equitably. It is a significant step towards ensuring that no one is left behind in the rapidly evolving digital landscape,” Mr Majaliwa said.
In his speech, Mr Majaliwa reaffirmed Tanzania’s longstanding commitment to promoting peace and stability both regionally and globally.
He highlighted Tanzania’s historic role in liberating African countries, particularly in Southern Africa, through the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
He reiterated that Tanzania remains committed to supporting peace initiatives, providing security support to several SADC and East African Community (EAC) nations.
On the sidelines of the UNGA79 summit, Mr Majaliwa held talks with the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, where they discussed issues of mutual interest, including defence, security and socio-political development.
The UN Secretary-General commended Tanzania for its enduring contributions to peace and security in Africa and its efforts to promote socio-economic development under the leadership of President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The Summit of the Future, held from September 22 to 23, was a critical moment for world leaders to discuss strategies for addressing pressing global challenges.
The summit’s theme, “Multilateral Solutions for a Better Tomorrow,” provided a platform for countries to exchange ideas on trade, energy, economic development, climate change, health, youth empowerment and the digital revolution.
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During the summit, leaders were expected to adopt the Pact for the Future, an outcome document that includes the Global Digital Compact and a Declaration on Future Generations. The Pact focuses on key global priorities, including promoting peace, fostering inclusivity in global governance and ensuring that emerging technologies are used responsibly and equitably.
Mr Majaliwa concluded by stressing the importance of a concise, action-oriented outcome from the summit, which envisions a future where dignity, peace and prosperity are shared by all.
He endorsed the UN Secretary-General’s call for biannual summits involving Heads of State and international financial institutions to mobilise resources for addressing global challenges effectively.
As part of Tanzania’s engagement in these global efforts, the country remains committed to working with the international community to achieve sustainable development goals, combat climate change and ensure that the digital revolution benefits all, he insisted.
