By G9ija

The 18th session of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) General Conference has resolved to accelerate inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID) for the realization of the 2030 Agenda by strengthening partnerships with the private sector and harnessing the potential of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies.

“In planning this 18th session of the UNIDO General Conference under the theme of “Industry 2030 – Innovate. Connect. Transform our Future”, we followed our vision towards the world we want by the year 2030,” said Director General LI Yong in his closing remarks.

“This vision is based on stronger international cooperation, with industries that are inclusive and sustainable, driving a low-carbon, climate-smart economy that provides decent jobs, inclusive growth, shared prosperity and that empowers all people in all countries.”

Co-hosted with the UAE, the Conference, which brought together more than 1,700 people from all around the world, highlighted achievements through an interactive exhibition and a series of side-events focusing on today’s most relevant topics for UNIDO Member States, including gender, circular economy, youth and entrepreneurship, Industry 4.0, industrial parks, sustainable energy and partnerships.

Some of the important documents adopted included the LDC Ministerial Declaration as well as resolutions on the Third Industrial Development Decade for Africa (IDDA III), Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and middle-income countries.

“Your support and guidance re-assures us that we are on the right track to fulfil our mandate of inclusive and sustainable industrial development. This General Conference is a milestone and also a starting point to join in the global call for action, entering the final decade towards Industry 2030,” said DG LI Yong. “Please join me in applauding the leadership of the UAE in driving with UNIDO the advancement of global industrial cooperation.”

The UAE Minister of Energy and Industry, Suhail Mohamed Faraj Al Mazrouei added, “Abu Dhabi Declaration is going to hopefully transform the way that we work together, highlighting the role of the private sector and of the financial institutions in the development of all of the member countries. As countries, we cannot do it alone. We need strong partnerships.”