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COP29: Landmark agreement between the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment and UNOSSC fuel innovation for a sustainable future through South-South collaboration
The agreement leverages 25 years of Zayed International Foundation's environmental leadership and UNOSSC's expertise in South-South cooperation to accelerate global impact
The Zayed International Foundation for the Environment and the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC) have announced a landmark agreement at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, solidifying their commitment to driving sustainable development through South-South and triangular cooperation.
Building upon Zayed International Foundation’s 25-year legacy of environmental action in the region and globally, and its new "Transforming Cities into Practical Learning Hubs for the Environment and Sustainable Development" project, this partnership will leverage the newly launched South-South and Triangular Cooperation Solutions Lab to incubate, finance, and scale innovative solutions. The Lab represents a paradigm shift in collaborative problem-solving, bringing together Southern countries and triangular cooperation partners to address critical development challenges.
Recognizing the critical role of South-South cooperation in facilitating knowledge exchange, scaling effective climate solutions, and promoting inclusive climate action for a just global transition, the partnership will harness the strengths of both organizations to foster innovation, skills development, and entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on empowering youth, women, and retiring professionals.
The lab's current partners are the Gulf Organisation for Research and Development (GORD), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Masdar City, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), the World Food Programme (WFP), and the Zayed International Foundation for Environment.
Prof. Mohamed Ahmed bin Fahad, Chairman of the Higher Committee of the Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, and UNOSSC Director Dima Al-Khatib signed the agreement during an event hosted by the Gulf Organization for Research and Development (GORD) in the presence of distinguished guests and speakers.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Mohamed Ahmed bin Fahad said: "This partnership marks a significant milestone in Zayed International Foundation’s 25-year journey of environmental stewardship. By joining forces with UNOSSC, we amplify our commitment to fostering innovation and empowering local communities to lead the change toward a sustainable future. This collaboration will unlock new opportunities for knowledge sharing, resource mobilization, and impactful initiatives on the ground."
He further emphasized the importance of global cooperation in tackling climate change and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals to build a greener, more resilient world for generations to come.
Dr. Hamdan Khalifa Al Shaer, the Higher Committee member of Zayed International Foundation for the Environment emphasized the importance of innovation and inclusivity and said: "We are entering a new era focused on research, innovation, and practical knowledge sharing. This collaboration with UNOSSC on 'Transforming Cities' exemplifies our dedication to building capacity and nurturing environmental leadership to empower communities, particularly in the Global South.”
The "Transforming Cities" project will pilot technology-enabled training centers, train-the trainer programs, and entrepreneurship initiatives. These efforts will cultivate a network of ambassadors for the UN 2030 Agenda and beyond, fostering sustainable development globally. The Zayed International Foundation for the Environment and UNOSSC will work together to build global partnerships, establish an advisory body, and host workshops and conferences to promote the program's objectives.
