The UAE, represented by its Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, recently participated in the third meeting of the G20 Energy Transitions Working Group (ETWG), held in the Republic of South Africa.
This participation comes as part of the UAE’s global efforts to support the energy transition, implement the outcomes of the historic UAE Consensus from COP28, and reinforce the country’s commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
During the meetings, the ministry highlighted the UAE’s key achievements in accelerating the energy sector transition, enhancing energy efficiency and developing a balanced mix of energy sources, all contributing to energy security and sustainable development.
UAE’s peaceful nuclear energy program in focus
The ministry also took part in a joint side session between the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) under the theme ‘Nuclear Energy for Africa.’
The session shed light on the UAE’s pioneering experience in developing a safe and peaceful nuclear energy program, positioning it as a model for supporting developing countries and enabling equitable energy transition pathways.
In the Energy Efficiency session, the ministry showcased national initiatives and legislation aimed at doubling the rate of energy efficiency improvements, in alignment with the goals of the Global Energy Efficiency Alliance (GEEA) launched by the UAE.
Reaffirming its commitment to advancing global efforts toward a more sustainable future, the UAE founded the GEEA to accelerate the international adoption of energy efficiency solutions. The initiative promotes the exchange of best practices, strengthens collaboration between public and private sectors and supports countries in developing effective policies and legislation to improve energy use efficiency across various sectors.
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UAE spotlights growing role of youth in building sustainable future
In addition to focusing on the energy transition, the UAE highlighted its commitment to empowering youth as a fundamental pillar for building a prosperous and sustainable future.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) participated in the session on “Inclusive Growth, Job Creation and Youth Empowerment,” held as part of the G20 Labour and Employment Ministers’ Meeting, where it noted that youth make up half of the workforce in the UAE labor market, which has recorded a 12 percent growth in its workforce and a 17 percent growth in total number of companies.
Furthermore, UAE citizens’ share of the workforce grew by 325 percent over the past three years since the launch of the Nafis program, which reinforces the youth’s role in driving comprehensive economic growth, encouraging innovation and supporting social cohesion – all of which is accomplished by empowering the youth, developing their capabilities and enhancing their skills.
Founded in 1999, the G20 brings together the world’s major economies, which collectively represent 85 percent of global GDP, 75 percent of international trade and two-thirds of the world’s population. It offers a key platform for international cooperation, policymaking and setting global objectives and commitments, laying the foundation for global economic stability and economic development.
