The Strategy Group of the Global Investors for Sustainable Development (GISD) Alliance met in Dubai, UAE on 23rd and 24th February. The meeting was hosted by Ms. Habiba Al Mar'ashi, Chairperson of Emirates Environmental Group. Mr. Navid Hanif, Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development, UN DESA, moderated the meeting with special remarks provided (virtually) by GISD Alliance Co-Chairs Mr. José Viñals, Group Chairman of Standard Chartered, and Dr. Leila Fourie, CEO of Johannesburg Stock Exchange.

The objective of the meeting was to reflect on how the Alliance can adapt and scale up its work so that it is commensurate to the challenges facing the world today: rising inflation, higher interest rates, debt distress in a number of emerging and developing economies, continued disruptions from the pandemic, and escalating geopolitical tensions.

The Strategy Group discussed the latest updates to GISD's deliverables and agreed on key priority areas for 2023 and beyond. High on GISD's priority is the Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) reform agenda. Members agreed there is a unique opportunity to effect real change in the operations of MDBs and GISD recommitted itself to focusing on private capital mobilization. Strategy Group members also stressed the need for standardization and interoperability in disclosure and agreed to review its work in this area to contribute to further regional and/or global harmonization. GISD recognised its ability to act as an incubator and agreed to continue working towards developing the Sustainable Infrastructure Investment Platform (SIIP), together with other products and vehicles. Finally, members emphasized the importance of enhancing its engagement with key forums, including the B20 and COP28, and agreed to build on the progress made the previous year.
 

The GISD Strategy Group meeting concluded with an open event with attendees from the local business and financial sectors. GISD strategy group members participated in two Davos-style panel discussions on scaling up green financing and on integrating long-termism in investments and finance. The panelists presented GISD's recommendations and solutions before moderated discussions were held with the local representatives in attendance. You can view a recording of the event and find more information here.