Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim has stated that international assistance and cooperation are essential to protect countries from the impacts of climate change and to ensure long-term energy security.

The Minister made the remarks while speaking at the pre-assembly meeting held ahead of the 16th Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

The meeting focused on encouraging global efforts to triple the use of renewable energy. During the session, Minister Thoriq delivered a statement on behalf of the Maldives, outlining the country’s progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7, which aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy. He also highlighted key challenges facing the sector.

The Minister noted that one of the most important policy priorities of the Government is the transition of the national energy system to renewable sources. As part of this commitment, the Government aims to generate 33 per cent of the country’s energy from renewable sources.

The 16th IRENA Assembly is being held from 11 to 12 January 2026 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, under the theme “Powering Humanity: Renewable Energy for Shared Prosperity”. The global gathering brings together around 1,500 ministers and high-level delegates from IRENA’s 171 member states, along with chief executives, investors, international organisations and youth representatives, to shape a shared agenda and strengthen international cooperation on renewable energy for the year ahead.