The Maldives is pushing for greater representation and recognition of the interests of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) at the 28th meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA) under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy said.

The meeting will continue until 1 August. The ministry said the Maldives' main objective is to secure dedicated seats for SIDS in the expert groups established to support the implementation of the Convention. It said this would strengthen the participation of environmentally vulnerable countries such as the Maldives in decision-making processes.

The Maldives will also advocate for the priorities and challenges faced by SIDS to be reflected in the global review of biodiversity conservation efforts. In addition, the country will push for greater support to strengthen the capacity of SIDS to monitor environmental issues and prepare reports.

Another key priority for the Maldives is promoting the use of scientific evidence in policymaking and ensuring scientific information is made more accessible to all countries, the ministry said.

The ministry added that the meeting provides an important opportunity to advance the interests of the Maldives and other Small Island Developing States as part of the Government of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's efforts to expand the country's role in international environmental affairs.