Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has called for enhanced international cooperation and greater climate financing to help vulnerable countries respond to the growing challenges posed by climate mobility.

Speaking at the High-Level Segment on the Climate Mobility Principles during the Berlin Climate Mobility Forum 2026, the Vice President highlighted the increasing impact of climate change on communities, particularly in small island nations such as the Maldives.

He noted that climate change is already influencing the lives of Maldivians, affecting the future of islands and shaping the country's long-term development plans.

He stressed that climate mobility is an immediate issue that requires practical and sustainable solutions rather than a challenge for future generations alone.

The Vice President outlined the Maldives' ongoing efforts to strengthen resilience through investments in coastal protection, climate-resilient infrastructure, and adaptation measures across multiple sectors.

He pointed to Hulhumalé as an example of climate-resilient urban development and noted that the planned Ras Malé project builds on similar principles to support long-term security and economic opportunities.

He also emphasized that climate mobility policies should focus on strengthening resilience and creating conditions that allow communities to remain safely in their homes.

Where relocation becomes necessary, he said movement should be carefully planned, voluntary, and carried out with dignity.

The Vice President further highlighted the need for accessible climate finance, calling on development partners to expand concessional funding, grants, technology transfer, and capacity-building initiatives tailored to the needs of Small Island Developing States.

Concluding his remarks, he welcomed the Climate Mobility Principles and reaffirmed the Maldives’ support for people-centred and rights-based approaches, stressing the importance of translating global commitments into meaningful action that helps communities build resilient futures.