Statement: Joint Discussion on Sustainable Development

Statement by Ms. Gudrun Thorbjornsdottir, Counsellor, 
Permanent Mission of Iceland to the United Nations 
Economic and Financial Committee (2nd Committee)
Joint Discussion on Sustainable Development 
13 October 2026

Thank you, Chair.

Distinguished delegates and colleagues.

The SDGs are essential to building lasting peace, addressing inequalities, and creating a more just, inclusive and resilient world. Iceland is committed to the 2030 Agenda, and we firmly believe that every country, regardless of size, can make a meaningful contribution.

Climate change and environmental degradation continue to undermine progress towards sustainable development, with vulnerable communities bearing the greatest burden. We must strengthen our resolve to protect our planet, support those on the front lines of the climate crisis and honour our commitments under the Paris Agreement.

We also look forward to working with Member States to implement the BBNJ agreement, which is a significant step toward protecting marine biodiversity and ensuring the sustainable use of our shared ocean resources.

The health of our oceans remains a priority for Iceland. It is essential for the well-being of our planet, our food security and biodiversity.

Likewise, renewable energy is essential to achieving sustainable development and building a more resilient, equitable and sustainable future.

Gender equality is equally fundamental. We cannot achieve sustainable development without the full, equal and meaningful participation of all women and girls in every aspect of society.

Mr. Chair,

Land restoration and sustainable land management is also essential to addressing environmental degradation, combating desertification and protecting biodiversity. Iceland supports the work of the UNCCD and proudly co-chair the Group of Friends on Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought with Namibia.

We welcome the biennialization of the resolution on the Implementation of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, in line with the decisions made in the revitalization process of the Second Committee. Iceland has co-facilitated this resolution for over a decade and we look forward to doing so again next year.

In our work going forward we must ensure that resolution 80/251 is implemented as well as the Second Committee revitalization efforts. It is imperative that we pursue more streamlined texts, mandate reform and ensure that our work is focused, effective and responsive to the development challenges of today.

I thank you.