S&D Euro MPs reaffirmed today their commitment to deepen relations with the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries during the 33rd session of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly (ACP-EU JPA) which took place in St. Julian’s, Malta from 17 to 21 June 2017. The Socialists and Democrats agreed to enhance co-operation in order to implement the 2015 Paris Agreement (COP21) together with progressives from all around the globe and mitigate the effects of climate change.

S&D Group spokesperson for the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, Marie Arena MEP, said:

“We explored possibilities on how to enhance co-operation between the EU and our ACP partners in order to better face common challenges, such as climate change.

“As progressives we need to take the lead and work together with our partners from all around the world to ensure that the ambitious climate goals laid down in the Paris Agreement are upheld.

“The withdrawal of the US from COP21 is shameful but should not stop us from acting.”

Hon. Waven William, member of the 6th National Assembly of the Seychelles stated:

“Climate change is real. It is real for all countries, but smaller and poorer countries are suffering the most. This is especially true for the Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including the country I come from, the Seychelles. We are struggling to put in place an action plan and initiatives to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change. However, our ability to respond effectively is hampered by existing inequalities in terms of financial means and technology.

“The interconnectedness of our global community and the differentiated paths of development are damaging the environment which we all share. We all have a duty to act together without delay. We are calling for stronger political will and for full implementation of the legally binding agreements which we have all signed up to.”

The S&D Group, which was represented by a large delegation, will continue to play a leading role in the field of EU-Africa relations, both in the framework of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly and beyond, including through the 2nd edition of the S&D Group’s Africa Week due to take place from 25 to 28 September 2017 in Brussels.

MEPs involved