Representatives from the International WeLoveU Foundation attended the Interregional Preparatory Meeting in Cabo Verde. Between August 30, 2023, and September 1, 2023, meetings were held at the Universidad de Cabo Verde.

Discussions among ambassadors, heads of state, and others identified and developed input for SIDS4. SIDS4 is the Fourth International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The conference is scheduled for May 2024 in Antigua and Barbuda, and leaders will evaluate SIDS’ ability to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. “We believe that the unity achieved at this stage of the Inter-Regional Meeting in Cabo Verde strengthens us in our determination to look forward towards the Fourth Conference on the Small Island Developing States and beyond,” notes the conference’s outcome document.

Joining the conference gave WeLoveU representatives insight into what Small Island Developing States need the most. The SIDS governments and associate members of the United Nations reaffirm to “renew our commitment to charting the course towards resilient prosperity for SIDS, which requires robust means of implementation and the fullest support of the international community.” Understanding this, WeLoveU will plan meaningful activities for the remainder of 2023 with SIDS at the forefront of its initiatives.

Like all attending parties at the Interregional Preparatory Meeting, WeLoveU recognizes the urgent need to act to protect SIDS who bear the brunt of climate change. During WeLoveU’s visit to Cabo Verde, representatives met the President and First Lady of Cabo Verde, donated 350 backpacks to school students, and conducted a beach cleanup.

Similar to the Interregional Preparatory Meeting, WeLoveU’s Chairwoman, Zahng Gil-jah, hosts annual conferences to establish global partnerships for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. In 2019, foreign diplomats to Korea from 16 countries attended a WeLoveU dinner conference to share ideas and advice on human welfare. Zahng Gil-jah said, “I hope through today’s event, we can give hope, courage, and help to our global neighbors in difficulties, such as environmental refugees, displaced families, and the under-resourced.”