Tag: COP28

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COP28: Al Jaber urges ‘transformational progress’

Dr. Al Jaber reminded ministers and climate leaders of the approaching Global Stocktake at COP28 and urged them to take action across a range of key areas to bring 1.5C within reach….reports Asian Lite News

At the conclusion of the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial, Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and COP28 President-Designate, urged global climate ministers to unite behind “transformational progress” for a COP of Action and a COP for All.

Dr. Al Jaber joined Sameh Shoukry, Minister of Foreign Affairs, COP27 President and Foreign Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt, to co-chair the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial in Denmark – the first official meeting of climate leaders and ministers from around the world since COP27.

The event, which was hosted by the Danish government, also saw Dr. Al Jaber hold a series of one-to-one meetings with climate leaders, where he drove forward his agenda to secure commitment to an inclusive COP of Action and urged leaders to deliver “transformational progress” to keep 1.5 degrees alive.

The meeting was attended by climate ministers and senior government representatives from developed and developing countries including France, Japan, the Maldives, Samoa, the UK and USA. The Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC, Simon Stiell and Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on Climate Action and Just Transition, Selwin Hart, were also in attendance.

During the two-day event, Dr. Al Jaber worked with Sameh Shoukry and Dan Jørgensen, Danish Minister of Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy, to lead efforts to deliver on the meeting’s aim of securing the implementation of the results of COP27 while also setting the course ahead towards COP28 in the UAE later this year.

In his remarks, Dr. Al Jaber reminded ministers and climate leaders of the approaching Global Stocktake at COP28 and urged them to take action across a range of key areas to bring 1.5C within reach.

He said, ” Yesterday’s IPCC report highlighted the significant challenges ahead and the urgent need to course correct if we are to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. But more importantly, the report identifies the opportunities and solutions that are available to reduce emissions and enhance resilience.”

Dr. Al Jaber emphasised the need to accelerate pathways to net zero by rapidly adopting renewable and zero carbon energies, decarbonizing the current energy system and investing in proven and new mitigation technologies. He said: “We have a short window of opportunity to deliver a system-wide transformation. But if we make the right investments, we can create a pathway for sustainable growth, where climate and economic progress go hand-in-hand.”

He also spoke about finance being the critical success factor across all pillars, saying, “We need to double adaptation finance by 2025 and we need a strong outcome on loss and damage this year, with clear recommendations from the transitional committee on the fund and funding arrangement.” Dr. Sultan in his closing remarks underscored the need to explore all networks to ensure the fund is fully operationalized by COP28.

While at the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial, Dr. Al Jaber played a key role in leading and facilitating a series of high-level plenaries and discussions. He also met with a range of climate minsters and leaders as well as representatives from the climate sector including Zhao Yingmin, Vice Minister for China; Collins Nzovu, Minister of Zambia; Grace Fu, Minister of Environment for Singapore and Jennifer Morgan, State Secretary of Germany. Throughout all discussions, he emphasized the need for climate action and an ambitious COP28.

In concluding the visit, Dr Al. Jaber thanked ministers and climate leaders and welcomed their support for an accelerated energy transition, enabled by an inclusive approach that empowers private sector partners.

Ambassador Majid, Director-General of COP28, accompanied Dr. Al Jaber to Copenhagen, leading a roundtable with CEOs and business executives from Danish industry spanning renewable energy, heavy industry and transport, water systems, and energy innovation. In the meeting, Ambassador Majid linked COP28 to the real economy and discussed key components of the COP28 strategy, namely the Global Stocktake, the energy transition and partnership with the private sector in climate action.

Copenhagen was the latest destination in the COP28 Presidency’s global listening tour – a series of international visits to meet with, and hear the views of, a range of partners across government, civil society, youth, the private sector and representatives of international organizations and NGOs. To date, Dr. Al Jaber and members of the COP28 leadership team have visited India, the UK, Germany, France and the US. Additional meetings are scheduled for both developed and developing countries.

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‘Ireland aims for highest possible ambition deal at COP28’

Ireland stands ready to support the UAE in its endeavours to make COP28 very successful, said the minister who was on an official visit to the UAE…reports Asian Lite News

Ireland is looking forward to working with the UAE and prepare the highest possible ambition agreement at COP28, the UN Climate Conference to be held in Dubai in November, according to a top Irish official.

“We have been encouraged by public commitment made by Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, COP28 President-Designate, to prioritise keeping alive the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. This will require a significant step-change by the international community,” Josepha Madigan, Irish Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion, told the Emirates News Agency (WAM).

Ireland stands ready to support the UAE in its endeavours to make COP28 very successful, said the minister who was on an official visit to the UAE.

COP28, UNSC cooperation

“Ireland is committed to the UNFCCC [United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change] process as the multilateral mechanism to drive global climate action and address climate change. We look forward to continuing this important work in COP28,” she stressed.

A high-level delegation including the Irish Prime Minister attended COP27 in Egypt last November, where loss and damage was a key priority for Ireland, among others, including mitigation and emission reduction, Madigan noted. A similar Irish delegation is expected to attend COP28, she added.

“We believe that developed countries have a vital leadership role to play in delivering the outcomes of COP27 and in setting global ambition ahead of COP28,” the minister said.

“Ireland’s international climate action focuses on assisting vulnerable countries and communities. We are in the process of more than doubling our climate finance by 2025 and recently published a Roadmap on our focus areas,” she explained.

Talking about Ireland-UAE cooperation in the UN, Madigan said, “It was a privilege for Ireland to serve on the UN Security Council in 2021 and 2022, and to cooperate with the UAE last year on the many areas of mutual importance. While we have left the Security Council, the UN remains at the heart of Ireland’s foreign policy.”

Irish community fosters ties with UAE

Ireland is committed to deepening its relationship with the UAE, the minister asserted.

“Our people-to-people links have grown in recent years, with over 10,000 Irish citizens living in the UAE and with an increasing number of Emirati citizens studying in Ireland. I believe there are significant opportunities to increase our two-way interactions and skills exchange, including in the education sector.”

As Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion, Madigan is particularly proud of the contributions being made by an estimated 3,000 Irish teachers to the UAE’s education sector.

“The Irish diaspora here play a pivotal role in maintaining a strong relationship between the UAE and Ireland, and I have really enjoyed engaging with them directly and learning about their experience of living here,” said the minister who participated in the Irish National Day celebrations with her community in the UAE.

St Patrick’s Day celebrations in UAE

“St Patrick’s Day 2023 marks a century of Ireland’s independence. I am delighted to be able to celebrate this year’s St. Patrick’s Day in the UAE, a country which holds strong bilateral ties with Ireland since the two nations first established diplomatic relations in 1974,” Madigan said.

She expressed her delight in meeting the key political leaders, business leaders, decision-makers, and stakeholders in the UAE to discuss opportunities for future collaborations across commerce, education, trade, science, culture and more.

“A key message I want to convey to our Emirati friends is that Ireland is a fantastic country to live, work, invest, study and visit.”

The bilateral trade and investment cooperation has flourished in the past two decades, aided by the now well-established air routes between Ireland and both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the minister pointed out.

Tourism drives people-to-people ties

Tourism has been one of the key factors in facilitating the strong bilateral relationship and continues to be a significant driver for people-to-people exchanges, allowing residents of both countries to experience each other’s cultures and traditions, she explained.

“Ireland has a lot to offer the Middle Eastern traveller in search of a unique experience. Visa-free travel available to Emirati citizens has made their visit to Ireland easier. Travellers from the GCC accounts for approximately 80 percent of tourist arrivals from the Middle East.”

For Irish citizens in Ireland, the UAE also has much to offer in terms of a holiday destination and place to live and work, the minister pointed out.

“This is reflected in the growing number of Irish citizens choosing the UAE as a place to live and to travel to as a holiday destination. With daily flights from Dublin to both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, travel from Ireland to the UAE is easy and provides an opportunity for Irish citizens to soak up the sun in an exciting destination,” Madigan said. (By Binsal Abdulkader)

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‘Road to COP28′ unifies UAE stakeholders

‘Road to COP28’ event on March 15 focus on youth to come together and join the wider community towards raising awareness and mobilising an all-of-society effort towards COP28….reports Asian Lite News

UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan has announced the first COP28 Presidency-hosted and youth-led event, ‘Road to COP28’, will be held at Expo City Dubai on 15th March.

“The UAE has embraced the vision of a climate-focused future with people at the centre,” Sheikh Abdullah, who chairs the Higher Committee overseeing preparations for COP28, said.

“As the host country of COP28, the UAE is dedicating significant resources at all levels of government to lead a transparent, innovative, and inclusive climate process that brings together key stakeholders and communities – particularly youth – to collectively drive a solutions-oriented COP28 agenda.”

This event represents a significant moment for the country’s youth to come together and join the wider community towards raising awareness and mobilizing an all-of-society effort towards COP28. The ‘Road to COP28’ event aligns with COP28’s goal to accelerate global climate action, with all parties and stakeholders across society working together to achieve the pledges made for future generations.

Program and Activities

The day-long event on March 15 consists of three programs, starting with a morning program of interactive workshops to inspire, educate, and empower young students ages 7 to 15 to understand and tackle climate change.

The afternoon program will include youth circles, debates, workshops, sustainability initiatives, and performances hosted by partners, including the Federal Youth Authority and the Arab Youth Center. The main evening program will be a platform for the UAE’s leadership to share their ambitions for COP28 alongside youth climate advocates.

With climate action at the centre, the event will revolve around four strategic pillars: participation, action, voice, and education. The ‘Road to COP28’ will also see the launch of key initiatives to enhance youth participation within the UN climate process and amplify the efforts of youth-led and youth-focused organizations in the global climate community.

The ‘Road to COP28’ event will highlight the priorities and principles underpinning COP28, through a varied program of activities to engage with more than 3,000 people, including students, youth in national service, youth climate advocates, people of determination, senior citizens, and more. The event will be attended by COP28 leadership, senior government officials, and ambassadors to the UAE.

Youth at the centre

“The youth of today are the climate leaders of tomorrow,” Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, President-Designate of COP28 and Vice-Chairman of the Higher Committee overseeing preparations for COP28 said.

“Central to the success of COP28, which is taking place later this year, we are keen to ensure that their perspectives, vision and skills are included to drive climate action. Led by COP28’s Youth Climate Champion, Shamma Al Mazrui, this youth-led event is a crucial milestone in the inclusion of and ongoing engagement with young people across the world.”

He said the COP28 Presidency firmly believes in delivering a COP for all, and this calls for active participation from all of society, all of government and the whole country.

Institutional and societal commitment

Mariam bint Mohammed Saeed Hareb Al Mheiri, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, said that climate and environmental action is an institutional and societal commitment in the UAE, especially with the wise leadership declaring 2023 the Year of Sustainability.

She stressed that hosting COP28 is an opportunity for everyone to participate in promoting environmental awareness and climate action and strengthening strategic partnerships to achieve the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement.

Youth Climate Champion

Shamma bint Suhail bin Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Development and the COP28 Youth Climate Champion, said that building youth capacities, mainstreaming them into the COP process, and promoting climate change awareness enhances youth’s pivotal role in global climate action and creates a new narrative that brings about desired transformations.

She called on youth to be change makers by adopting a culture of flexibility, innovating solutions, and seizing opportunities. She added that the UAE’s establishment of the Youth Climate Champion role establishes a sustainable legacy for COP28 and ensures the continuity of the youth’s leadership role in environment-friendly practices and international climate events in the future.

An enduring impact

Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture and Youth, reiterated that youth have the potential and capabilities to create an enduring impact once talents from all disciplines came together to accelerate the momentum of climate action globally through innovative ideas and practical solutions.

He also highlighted the relentless commitment of the UAE’s leadership to empowering youth and enabling them to turn their promising projects into reality, while encouraging them to share their insights, success stories, and best practices with their peers around the world, which contributes to socio-economic development and introduces ecofriendly enterprises while playing a pivotal part in providing solutions to crucial global challenges such as climate change.

Inclusivity will be a core principle

“Climate change is a global issue that needs global and local solutions,” said Razan Al Mubarak, UN Climate Change High-Level Champion for COP28 and President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), said.

“It calls for active participation from all segments of society, including women, youth, indigenous peoples, civil society, businesses and more, to drive meaningful and innovative climate action to protect the planet and people. Inclusivity will be a core principle for COP28, and we welcome diverse voices and perspectives into the fold. I look forward to being a part of this event, to engage with the UAE’s youth, and to learn more about the priorities of our young people on the road to COP28.”

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COP28 a key milestone in climate action: AFC Prez

Zubairu said that the world is waiting for the UAE to host COP28…reports Asian Lite News

Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), said that the UAE’s hosting of COP28 is a key milestone in the global climate action drive, especially as the country has adopted a strategy to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, as well as pioneering national and international renewable energy projects.

In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Zubairu said that the world is waiting for the UAE to host COP28, which will be an innovative platform for boosting the collective efforts to create a sustainable future.

The AFC has strategic ties with the UAE, which is a key hub for investments flowing to Africa from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, he added. The share of Emirati contributions to the corporation’s total investments is nearly 60 percent, Zubairu continued, underscoring the UAE’s pivotal role in supporting economic growth in Africa.

He went to underscore the importance of using electric vehicles (EV) to reduce carbon emissions, noting that the value of EV market is estimated at US$7 trillion and expected to reach more than US$46 trillion by 2050.

The AFC is focusing on improving access to sustainable resources and ensuring food, water and energy security in Egypt, he added, highlighting the efforts to create economic zones and attract investments to advance various industries.

Zubairu pointed out that AFC signed a Memorandum of Understanding last year with Abu Dhabi Ports to attract investments and imports and launch joint logistics services in Africa. They identified three ports in the continent for this purpose, noting the corporation’s ongoing cooperation with Masdar on its African renewable energy strategy.

Over the last 15 years, AFC has invested more than US$10 billion in infrastructure projects across 37 countries in Africa.

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Advancing COP28 agenda in global finance industry

The event featured an A-list line-up of speakers and attendees from leading investment firms, banks, policymakers, and financial service providers to discuss COP28 priorities…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) hosted the world’s first finance summit dedicated to advancing the COP28 climate action agenda in the global finance industry.

As part of the DIFC-hosted Global Ethical Finance Initiative’s Path to COP28 programme, over 500 industry professionals attended the first in a series of summits serving as a platform to drive proactive action in the finance industry to lead the charge on climate change and be at the forefront of accelerating the green transition.

The event featured an A-list line-up of speakers and attendees from leading investment firms, banks, policymakers, and financial service providers to discuss COP28 priorities for the sector and how to implement best practice decision-making across their organisations.

The summit was chaired by Dame Heather McGregor – historically known as Miss Moneypenny in columns for the Financial Times and one of the first people to be awarded the honour of Dame by King Charles III. Dame Heather is now Provost and Vice Principal Heriot-Watt University, Dubai.

Renowned sustainable finance author and CEO of the Chartered Banker Institute, Simon Thompson shared his perspectives on how green finance can power the transition, ensuring capital flows to firms, investments, projects and technologies looking to create a sustainable, low-carbon world. Senior figures from key institutions including ING, Zurich Insurance and NatWest Group discussed their focus on delivering net zero.

The findings of the world’s first Global Islamic Finance Retail Banking Survey and its implications on United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were released at the event. The survey attracted responses from more than 2,000 customers.

90 per cent of Islamic banking customers across a range of markets say that is it important their bank provides products that are aligned to the SDGs. 96 per cent responded by saying it is important that finance products they purchase fit with the values and ethics in their life. 87 per cent are willing to pay more for financial products that are aligned to the SDGs.

Christian Kunz, Chief Strategy, Innovation and Ventures Officer at DIFC, who also spoke at the event, said, “DIFC and our clients are leading the approach on how the finance industry can play a significant role in tackling the climate crisis.”

“In alignment with the UAE’s priorities for hosting COP28, the first in a series of summits held at DIFC provided the ideal platform for influential contributors from the sector to come together and drive ideas forward to accelerate climate action. As a significant contributor to the sustainable economic growth of the Emirate, the DIFC is deeply committed to actively contributing the UAE’s role as host of the next UN climate talks – the second largest in the history of climate summits.”

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Hamdan oversees preparations for COP28

Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the importance of local and federal government entities working together as one team to ensure the success of COP28…reports Asian Lite News

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai attended a meeting of the Higher Committee overseeing preparations for the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC (COP28), which will be held at Expo City Dubai from November 30th to December 12th, 2023.

The meeting was held to discuss updates on the preparations and community engagement efforts for the climate conference.

Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President-Designate and Vice Chairman of the Higher Committee, provided Sheikh Hamdan with updates on the COP28 Presidency’s global listening tour, which has been undertaken in the lead up to the climate conference.

During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the importance of local and federal government entities working together as one team to ensure the success of COP28.

Sheikh Hamdan said that the UAE looks forward to hosting a dialogue on environmental issues at COP28 that will have an enduring impact on global sustainability and the future of humanity. He stated that the organisation of the event reflects the UAE’s commitment to bringing together nations and institutions from across the world to generate solutions for critical international issues.

Consistent with the UAE’s success in hosting mega global events, COP28 promises to open new pathways to resolve global environmental and climate-related challenges, he added.

COP28

The meeting built on the discussions at the previous Higher Committee meeting, which was chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Chairman of the COP28 UAE Higher Committee.

Dr. Al Jaber said, “The COP28 Presidency is actively consulting with and listening to all stakeholders on the first leg of our listening tour, to connect the efforts of all stakeholders in co-creating concrete solutions across mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage and climate finance.”

“This is crucial to COP28’s vision for an open, transparent and inclusive process that builds on previous climate progress, enhances the buy-in of diverse stakeholders and advances groundbreaking outcomes, solutions and partnerships towards achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.”

Dr. Al Jaber highlighted that rallying global, regional and national efforts in a concerted drive towards meaningful climate action, and ensuring all segments of society, from businesses and non-government organisations to youth, women and civil society, have a constructive role to play in the lead-up to and at the climate summit, are key to COP28’s success.

During the meeting, Shamma bin Suhail Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Development and COP28 Youth Climate Champion, highlighted efforts undertaken to accelerate local and international youth participation, and prioritise the voices, needs and skills of young people on the global climate agenda.

Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment, affirmed the UAE’s commitment to bold national climate action that aligns with COP28’s vision for transformative progress and the UAE’s 2023 theme ‘Year of Sustainability’.

The meeting also included an in-depth discussion of all logistical preparations that will create a seamless experience for delegates and visitors, from maximising accessibility to creating opportunities for all groups to engage in discussion and activities.

The COP28 UAE Higher Committee comprises ministers and government officials who represent the collective efforts of the government, various industries and sectors, at all levels, to prepare for the COP28 UAE climate summit.

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Preventing climate-driven insecurity top priority of COP28

The UAE will host COP28 in Dubai from 30th November to 12th December…reports Asian Lite News

Ambassador Majid Al Suwaidi, Director-General and Special Representative of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), called on Member States to take ambitious action to mitigate the consequences of rising sea levels on peace and security and other climate impacts at an open debate of the United Nations Security Council on 14th February.

The Open Debate on “Sea-level rise: implications for international peace and security” was chaired by Malta’s Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Dr. Ian Borg, and included briefings by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and President of the 77th Session of the UN General Assembly Csaba Körösi.

In his remarks, Ambassador Al Suwaidi called for catalysing greater and higher quality climate finance for fragile and vulnerable communities and also underscored the UAE’s support for the Secretary-General’s Early Warning for All initiative.

“The United Arab Emirates recognises the urgent need for a coordinated response across the multilateral system. We cannot neglect any element of the climate crisis, including its clear implications for international peace and security,” Ambassador Al Suwaidi stated. “Our obligation – with each body contributing within its mandate – is to reverse the current trajectories with inclusive, effective, and responsive climate action.”

The UAE will host COP28 in Dubai from 30th November to 12th December, which will include the first Global Stocktake to assess progress toward implementation of the Paris Agreement.

On 13th February, Ambassador Al Suwaidi hosted an informal discussion with a group of key stakeholders on climate change, including representatives from major donors and leading voices from the Global South.

Ambassador Al Suwaidi also briefed diplomatic representatives from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to ensure close collaboration on shared priorities between the UAE and SIDS in the run-up to COP28.

In line with the UAE’s commitment to a successful partnership with the UN for COP28, Ambassador Al Suwaidi met with Selwin Hart, Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on Climate Action and Assistant UN Secretary-General of the Climate Action Team. These dialogues are a critical part of the broader “listening tour” that Ambassador Al Suwaidi and other UAE climate leaders are conducting to ensure an inclusive and consultative planning process for COP28.

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WB hopes renewed commitment to climate action at COP28

Belhaj said that the COP28 will provide a new impetus for the global system to implement commitments to mitigate climate change issues….reports Asian Lite News

Ferid Belhaj, World Bank Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has expressed the World Bank’s support for the UAE in hosting the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) from 30th November to 12th December 2023.

In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of his participation at the World Government Summit, Belhaj said that the COP28 will provide a new impetus for the global system to implement commitments to mitigate climate change issues.

He noted that climate change is one of the region’s main challenges, and the conference aims to reinforce global demands to meet the financing requirements necessary to confront climate change issues in the region, such as desertification, coastal erosion, and air pollution.

“We will see how to address these challenges during the COP28,” the World Bank Vice President added.

Belhaj stated that “COP26” witnessed a set of promises regarding pumping US$100 million annually, which Egypt called for its implementation during the “Implementation Summit” at COP27, while the COP28 will affirm these commitments and maintain hopes.

He highlighted the proactive role of the UAE in addressing climate change issues, as the country hosts the headquarters of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The UAE has also launched a set of policies and initiatives to tackle climate change issues, the official pointed out.

Regarding growth levels in the Gulf region, Belhaj explained that the growth rate in the region was strong last year but is expected to decrease during the current and next years, which highlights the importance of openness, economic diversification and orientation towards new areas.

He reiterated that the UAE’s economic openness approach has helped it to maintain economic growth momentum thanks to economic diversification.

Asked about the most critical challenges facing the region, he said that in addition to climate change, the issue of debt is one of the most pressing challenges facing the region, as some countries have suffered from accumulated debt.

Belhaj also pointed out that the employment of young people is one of the region’s main challenges. “According to our studies, the number of young jobseekers in the region will reach 300 million,” he said, explaining the need to find a strong strategy based on several components, including education as a key pillar.

“This is something that the UAE has prioritised by focusing on education to develop it and improve its methods,” he continued.

Belhaj indicated the importance of adopting policies that support gender balance in the region, praising the UAE’s experience and efforts in establishing The UAE Gender Balance Council. Emirati women play an active role in the economy, education and society, the Wold Bank executive pointed out.

Regarding the World Bank’s role in facing the challenges in cooperation with the regional countries, he explained that the bank’s brief is advisory. There is constant communication with the UAE to exchange experiences, expertise and best practices, and discuss means to finding solutions to various issues facing the Middle East and North Africa region, Belhaj added.

In response to a question about the role of the World Bank in supporting countries facing food crises, Belhaj explained that the bank is involved in financing and importing foods such as wheat to some countries due to the current geopolitical conditions leading to supply-chain disruption.

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‘Fight climate change, not each other’

Sultan Al Jaber noted that he would lay out a roadmap for COP28 that is “inclusive, results-oriented and far from business as usual.”…reports Asian Lite News

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and COP28 President Designate stressed the need to move from incremental to transformational inclusive progress through partnership, political will and unified climate action.

Speaking at the World Government Summit in Dubai, Dr. Al Jaber affirmed that the UAE’s approach as host of COP28 would be to apply a positive mindset and the principle of partnership to ensure tangible results at COP28 taking place in Dubai later this year.

Dr. Al Jaber began his address by recalling the words of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the WGS in 2015, “Eight years ago on this same stage, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed made a bold prediction about the future when he said that if we make the right investments today, there will come a time when the UAE would celebrate the last barrel of oil. That was the word His Highness chose: ‘Celebrate.’

“It was a bold call to action that resonated deeply around the world, and it absolutely resonated with me. The UAE has always made progress by getting ahead of the future.

And the advances we have made in only 50 years, have been anchored by the principle and practice of true genuine partnership.”

Highlighting that “the UAE approaches this task with humility, a clear sense of responsibility and a great sense of urgency,” Dr. Al Jaber reiterated that the world is way off track when it comes to the goal of keeping global temperatures from rising 1.5 degrees and needed a new approach to move from goals to getting it done across mitigation, adaptation, climate finance and loss and damage.

“The hard reality is that global emissions must fall 43 percent by 2030. That’s just seven years away. We need a major course correction. The current approaches we have been using come from a different era. Some are no longer fit for purpose. And we need to accelerate action at a time of continued economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and pressure on energy security.

“We have to transform entire industrial systems that still run on the energies of the first Industrial Revolution. In short, we need to shift from incremental steps to transformational progress across mitigation, adaptation, finance and loss and damage.”

He emphasised that affordable, accessible capital was key to ensure inclusive climate progress. He also argued that clean investments are already driving sustainable growth and stressed the need for reform of international finance institutions and multilateral development banks:

“One of the most critical enablers to bridge from goals to getting it done is capital. Lots of capital. And we must make sure that this capital is accessible and affordable. We need to ramp up investment across every area of decarbonisation, and we should view these investments as an opportunity, not a burden. In fact, economists estimate that decarbonising industry, the energy sector, power generation, transportation, and food systems could create an additional 12 trillion dollars in economic value by 2030.

Dr. Al Jaber noted that he would lay out a roadmap for COP28 that is “inclusive, results-oriented and far from business as usual.” He added that the full COP28 team would be leveraged, including Shamma Al Mazrui, the Youth Climate Champion, Razan Al Mubarak, the UN High-Level Champion and the COP28 team, to mobilise every segment of society and bring all stakeholders together around a solutions-oriented agenda.

Dr. Al Jaber emphasised that policies and strategies should encourage inclusive progress particularly across the Global South.

“The strategies we pursue must leave no one behind. The policies we adopt must be pro-growth and pro-climate at the same time. We must enable an energy transition that includes the 800 million people who are excluded from access to energy today. And we must urgently address the needs of the 2.6 billion people who have no access to clean water. We must eliminate energy and water poverty, while keeping 1.5 alive. And we must cater for a world that will be home to an additional two billion people by 2050. In short, we need to hold back emissions, not progress.”

Dr. Al Jaber reiterated that the COP28 Presidency would listen to and engage with all stakeholders, noting that only through open, constructive, and positive engagement will we achieve the breakthroughs we collectively need. And he ended with a call to action to the world’s governments to combine political will with concrete actions for game-changing results:

“We all remember COP21 in Paris for uniting governments in agreement. And we want COP28 UAE to be remembered for uniting everyone in action. Action made more powerful through true and meaningful partnership. Action that will make real transformational progress and deliver tangible results. Let’s cooperate, collaborate and share ideas.

“Let’s unite in solidarity for the sake of humanity. Let’s live up to the responsibility that we have been entrusted with…Let’s put our differences aside. Fight climate change, not each other. Let’s stop deliberating and start delivering. And let’s make COP28 a COP of Unity, a COP of Action, a COP for All. A COP that will shape a better future.”

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UAE discusses sustainability initiatives and COP28

Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri presented an open invitation to all entities to join a dedicated team to develop the UAE’s sustainable circular economy landscape…reports Asian Lite News

The UAE Circular Economy Council convened its meeting, presided over by Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, Minister of Climate Change and the Environment to discuss ‘Year of Sustainability’ initiatives and COP28.

The meeting was attended by Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, CEO of Alliances for Global Sustainability; Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy; Omar Suwaina Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, along with other officials.

“The first meeting of the UAE Circular Economy Council in 2023 was particularly significant as we embark on the Year of Sustainability and advance our path to COP28,” said Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, President & CEO of the UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators.

“Convening key representatives from the public and private sector, the discussion highlighted the need for cross-industry collaboration, transparency, and access to information, in order to ensure the success of several waste management and decarburisation initiatives that are currently underway. The UICCA is committed to creating open dialogue between government entities and businesses, while providing structured policy recommendations that will be fundamental in the transition to the green economy.”

Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri said that President Sheikh Mohamed’s announcement that 2023 will be the “Year of Sustainability” came to confirm our role as a council to highlight the UAE extensive efforts to promote sustainable circularity ahead of COP28, and to showcase the country’s commitment towards fostering a global collaboration in seeking innovative solutions to challenges, such as energy, climate change and other pressing issues related to sustainability.”

“As the UAE will host COP28 later this year, the conference success depends on the ability of all of us to present and position the UAE as a role model in sustainable and climate friendly fast developing nation. One of the priority items that needs to be demonstrated towards a successful COP28 is our ability to adopt circular approaches and innovations to reduce our GHG emissions. Our commitment to global climate action, and the UAE’s adoption of the National Net Zero by 2050 Pathway, presents our long-term emissions reduction targets as we aim to achieve 18 percent emission reduction compared to 2019 baseline by 2030,” she added.

The Minister highlighted the UAE’s achievements in climate action and sustainability, and indicated that one of the priority elements that must be emphasised in 2023 for a successful COP28 is the country’s ability to adopt innovative approaches in circular economy to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

For this purpose, she presented an open invitation to all entities to join a dedicated team to develop the UAE’s sustainable circular economy landscape.

She also provided an overview of the results of a new joint report by the Ministry and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) on the state of the circular economy pathway in the UAE.

The report identifies relevant historic and recent trends, compares the UAE’s performance to that of other countries, and offers scenario projections for a greener and more circular UAE. Topics under the spotlight include waste generation, GHG emissions, natural capital, and the use and trade of secondary raw materials. The study also examines the consumption of materials, water, and energy, as well as the reuse and recycling of materials, nutrients, and water.

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Head of the Council’s Circular Economy Policies Committee, noted that the Committee recently held intensive workshops and meetings with the government and private sectors, as well as international partners.

The workshops were designed to support the implementation of the UAE Circular Economy Policy in four key sectors – manufacturing, green infrastructure, transportation, and food production and consumption – as well as the 23 new policies issued to drive the UAE’s overall transition to a circular economy.

These policies will contribute to addressing all challenges the private sector is facing in its shift to a circular economy and support the country’s green development drive.

The initiatives align with the directives of our wise leadership to fast-track the country’s transition to a circular economy as one of the sustainability, flexibility, and growth drivers of the new economic model as per the Principles of the 50.

He added: “The Committee continues its efforts to implement the UAE Circular Economy Policy 2021-2031 through programmes and projects that are set to attract investments to this field and expand its infrastructure. Efforts are also being exerted to establish a circular economy database, in addition to offering incentives to encourage the private sector to shift towards clean production methods, thereby enhancing the UAE’s competitiveness as one of the leading circular economies regionally and globally.”

Approved in January 2021, the UAE Circular Economy Policy identifies the optimal approach to the country’s transition to a circular economy.

Its objectives include building a sustainable economy, promoting efficient use of natural resources, encouraging the private sector to shift to cleaner industrial production methods that involve the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other 4IR technologies, and adopting sustainable consumption and production patterns that reduce environmental stress while meeting the basic needs of the population.

The UAE Circular Economy Council comprises 17 representatives of relevant federal and local government entities, private sector businesses, and international organisations.

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