According to projections, by 2050, the victims of the climate crisis could reach around 14.5 million people. The President of Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe, emphasized the importance of focusing on digital health, new technologies, modern medical equipment, ecological health, sustainable development, and providing financial assistance to countries facing economic risks at the World Summit of governments.
In his speech at the summit held in Dubai, Wickremesinghe highlighted the importance of effective governance, social justice, and the need to rethink global frameworks, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to reflect contemporary realities. He called for a rethinking of laws and governance systems to keep up with changing political structures, ensuring justice and protection of humanity from threats posed by the contemporary global order.
Wickremesinghe warned against the unacceptable consequences of climate change on countries with low income levels and advocated for the preservation of Sri Lanka’s natural resources. He also underscored the unique history of the country and the resilience of its people, who deeply understand global problems and are ready for change while respecting traditions.
The President also stressed the need to combat global health challenges, including reviving emerging infections and managing the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Health specialists predict that spending on mental health conditions will rise to $16 trillion by 2030.
The summit includes 21 global forums, which will explore key trends and transformations of the future, more than 200 interactive sessions involving over 300 influential speakers, including presidents, ministers, experts, and decision-makers, as well as more than 30 ministerial meetings and round tables with over 400 ministers participating.
Under the theme "Shaping Future Governments," the summit will continue until February 13. Wickremesinghe emphasized that governance in the future will require a high degree of accountability and effectiveness and that, to achieve this, collective efforts from all individuals are needed. He expressed concerns about threats arising from technological developments and called for strengthening global measures on cybersecurity.
