In New York, EU and ACP countries jointly commit themselves to implement SDGs and Paris Agreement

On Tuesday 24 September, the EU and the 79 countries of the ACP group (African/Caribbean/Pacific) reaffirmed their determination to implement the universal Agenda 2030 and its 17 SDGs, as well as their belief in multilateralism.

A joint declaration was adopted on the margins of the summit on sustainable development in New York (see EUROPE 12300/11). 

Non-binding, the latter sets out the common vision of partners bound by the Cotonou Agreement, in renegotiation for the post-2020 period. It reaffirms that "the 2030 Agenda is an ambitious and transformative plan of action to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development in its economic, social and environmental dimensions" for a more sustainable future owed to future generations.

"At a time, when the multilateral system is continuously put to the test", the EU and ACP stress "the need to be united".

Recognizing the linkages between sustainable development and climate action, the partners reiterate their "strong commitment to implement the Paris Agreement on Climate Change fully and effectively", and ensure that the implementation of the SDGs and the objectives of the Paris Agreement will underpin their partnership.

"Bold decisions are warranted for the achievement of the SDGs. We intend to intensify our efforts to accelerate progress (...) and stand ready to work together in supporting countries to integrate SDGs in their national policy", they state.

For the EU and the ACP, it is important that the Agenda 2030 is driven at national level and that the primary responsibility for its implementation lies with each country, in collaboration with stakeholders at all levels, including civil society, international organisations and the private sector.

The EU and ACP reaffirm their joint commitment to mobilise a wide range of financial resources and underline the importance of domestic resource mobilisation, development financing, development effectiveness and the strengthening of North-South, South-South and triangular cooperation. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)