Allianz : UN calls for action on Sustainable Development – Allianz co-chairs initiative to bring investor know-how to the table

The UN 2030 Agenda is a commitment of the 193 UN member states to align economic growth with social and ecological needs in order to ensure good living standards for future generations. According to the UN, achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires substantial financing in sectors such as health, education, transportation, and climate change. Close collaboration of the private and public sectors, in both developing and developed countries, will be key to achieving the SDGs.

'As responsible companies, we can create long-term value by embedding sustainability into our core business. Investing in the stable development of societies across the globe is not only the right thing to do, it also provides economic opportunities,' said Oliver Bäte. 'We are convinced that investments in emerging markets can foster sustainable growth without losing sight of our customers' interests.'

GISD members commit to actions such as establishing partnerships to strengthen relations between investors, governments and multilateral institutions that foster scalable investment opportunities in developing countries. They will also roll-out and promote the use of innovative financing facilities and tools that enhance the risk-return profile of investments in sustainable development, including in sectors and countries where investment is most needed.

For several years Allianz has been investing in emerging markets and infrastructure, building reliable partnerships with development banks and multilateral institutions:

In October 2016, the Allianz Group and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, signed a partnership under the Managed Co-Lending Portfolio Program. Under the agreement, Allianz intends to make an investment of $500 million which will be co-invested alongside IFC debt financing for infrastructure projects in emerging markets worldwide.

In April 2018, Allianz financed African infrastructure projects by investing in the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF). Allianz committed 75 million euros and $25 million to the EAIF, in order to benefit from the growth potential of African economies. This creates value for Allianz's insurance customers and fits into the international investment strategy of the Allianz Group.