UN General Assembly
2013

The thematic debate on partnership deserves high praise, in particular with the aforementioned Samoa Conference focusing on the overarching theme of the sustainable development of small island developing States through genuine and durable partnership. The second thematic debate, on the establishment of stable and peaceful societies, is also welcome, given the current chaos we are experiencing in the international community. The third thematic debate, on the roles of water, sanitation and sustainable energy, is equally crucial to the development agenda for the post-2015 period. Energy is the golden thread that connects economic growth, increased social equity and an environment that allows the world to thrive. Sustainable energy is central in order to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), including many development goals that extend far beyond the energy sector — eradicating poverty; increasing food production; providing clean water; improving public health; enhancing education; creating economic opportunity; and empowering women — as well as an integral part of creating sustainable development, including environmental sustainability. A shift towards more sustainable energy sources is also essential in addressing environmental