Mr. Chair,
Excellencies,
Distinguished colleagues,
At the outset, allow me to congratulate you for chairing the first time-ever high-level meeting on addressing the existential threats posed by sea-level rise.
The unprecedented nature of challenges that arise amidst climate crises have become increasingly alarming. Sea level rise is, foremost, among those consequential challenges, and adequate responses deserve priority given the existential threat it poses on low-lying nations worldwide, in particular Small Island Developing States. These States are by far the most vulnerable to the impacts of sea-level rise, as it touches upon their very existence.
Coastal States like my own country cannot ignore the impact of sea-level rise. Eritrea is disproportionately vulnerable to climate change and it is unequivocal that the marine and terrestrial ecosystem as well as the coastal biodiversity will be negatively affected over a longer period of time.
With approximately 5% of the national population living in coastal areas, sea-level rise will pose a profound threat to coastal communities, particularly in the Southern Red Sea region in Eritrea, where the livelihoods of the majority of the coastal communities depend on artisanal fishing and fishery products. Fishing is an inherited economic tradition that closely attaches these communities to the sea. The rising of the Red Sea level will disrupt these traditional livelihoods and could lead to economic hardship.
Additionally, we recognize the threat that sea-level rise could pose on our tourism aspirations. Eritrea’s pristine coastal marine habitat, the safe and secure environment as well as our rich cultural heritage and hospitable population along the coastline, are a strong basis for Eritrea in developing a sustainable tourism sector.
In the contxt of sea-level rise, we emphasize the need for stable maritime zones. There are parts within Eritrea’s territory that consist of low lying and sandy coastal areas, which are at constant risk from erosion, but in particular with the rise of sea levels and climate impacts. Therefore, we stress that baselines and maritime boundaries are preserved and that the sovereign and jurisdictional rights of States over their maritime spaces, in accordance with traditional sources of international law, are protected. Littoral States have a vital and indispensable role in securing and promoting a sustainable and stable maritime ecosystem.
Chair,
We must stand in solidarity with the most vulnerable nations, ensuring their voices are heard and their futures secured. As we move forward, Eritrea supports building a common understanding towards addressing the threats posed by sea-level rise and concrete actions that address both the immediate and long-term challenges of sea-level rise, safeguarding the rights, livelihoods, and cultures of all affected populations.
I thank you.
