UNSG Highlights Need for Resource Mobilization at Sustainable Dev’t Summit in Ethiopia

The Fourth International Conference on Financing for Sustainable Development commenced today at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa. The event was inaugurated with a virtual message from United Nations Secretary-General H.E. Antonio Guterres, who emphasized the significance of such platforms in mobilizing finance and other resources for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He expressed his hopes for fruitful deliberations among the participants.

Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister H.E. Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie, in his opening remarks, underscored the necessity for an ambitious approach to tackle today’s financial challenges in achieving the SDGs. He highlighted that the conference offers a crucial opportunity to reflect on the progress of the Addis Ababa Action Agenda and address the financial needs of developing countries.

The gathering also featured addresses from H.E. Ahmed Shide, Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance, and H.E. Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. Both speakers called for enhanced debt relief, effective coordination of partnerships, and encouraged attendees to share their experiences to promote equitable and sustainable financing.

The conference has attracted approximately 1,000 participants, fostering a diverse dialogue aimed at advancing sustainable development through innovative financial strategies.