Minister Shahid Explains Difficulties Faced By Countries In Accessing Financing For Renewable Energy

The Raisina Dialogue is an annual conference hosted by the Observer Research Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. On the invitation of the President of the Observer Research Foundation, Mr. Samir Saran, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Shahid took part in the 2021 edition of the Raisina Dialogue which was held virtually in the light of the ongoing pandemic.  

The Minister was accompanied by the Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Investment Fund Foundation Kate Hampton, and the Director General of International Solar Alliance Ajay Mathur on the panel whereas Programme Manager at Sustainable Energy for All, India, Kanika Chawla moderated the panel. 

Speaking at the conference, Minister Shahid stressed on the difficulties faced by countries in accessing financing for renewable energy. In this regard, he cites the complex procedures, limited domestic resources, high debt burdens, as challenges faced by countries – especially smaller countries similar to the Maldives.  

Nevertheless, the Minister also proudly notes that Maldivian Government is tirelessly working to shift towards cleaner methods of energy production. Accordingly, he highlights the ambitious target of Maldives to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030 – something the country is working collaboratively with the international community to reach.