Visit of Minister Serge Wilmes to Abu Dhabi for the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025

The Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in Abu Dhabi was honoured to welcome Mr. Serge Wilmes, Minister for the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity, and his delegation on the occasion of their participation in the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025 held in Abu Dhabi.

During the Congress, Minister Wilmes delivered an inspiring keynote address introducing the panel “Nature-Positive Future: Turning Pledges into Investments”. In this address, he emphasized the need for cooperation and harmony with nature, highlighting the importance of transforming pledges into tangible investments for a sustainable future.

He also launched Phase 3 of the Blue Natural Capital Financing Facility (BNCFF) — a Luxembourg-funded and IUCN-managed initiative that scales investable projects aimed at restoring coastal ecosystems while generating benefits for both local communities and investors.

Since its launch, the BNCFF has mobilised over 17 million euros, supported 21 high-impact projects, and contributed to the protection of 2.6 million hectares of marine ecosystems worldwide.

The Embassy of Luxembourg in Abu Dhabi — the Grand Duchy’s highest embassy in the world — was honoured to host Minister Wilmes and his delegation for an exchange with the Embassy team.