Page 12 - MBRF PR REPORT - SEPTEMBER 2025

Press Release

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On the sidelines of the 80 UN General Assembly

Arab knowledge stakeholders highlight the importance of

monitoring indices in accelerating the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable

Development

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New York, 28 September 2025 - A high-level event held on the sidelines of the 80 session of
the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) emphasized the critical role of knowledge tools
and monitoring indices in accelerating the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), the United
Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Permanent Mission of the United Arab

Emirates to the UN, the event brought together government representatives, knowledge leaders,
and strategic partners for a discussion on the opportunities and challenges facing the Arab world

in the context of economic transformation, technological shifts, climate change, and a rapidly
expanding youth population.

The event was inaugurated by Their Excellencies Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF; Dr. Abdullah
Al Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Regional Bureau for Arab States

at UNDP; and Mohamed Abushahab, Permanent Representative of the UAE to the UN. In their
opening remarks, the speakers emphasized the need for innovative frameworks and next-

generation indices to develop future-ready skills and advance inclusive and sustainable
development. They also urged greater collaboration at the regional and international levels to

ensure no one is left behind.

His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb stated: “There is a pressing need to exchange knowledge

and expertise across countries and institutions. This will certainly empower the Arab region to