Dr. Taher al-Baour, the Minister-in-Charge of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, and the head of the Libyan delegation at the United Nations Climate Change Conference COP28, stated that the conference was successful in achieving one of the most important goals in the fight against climate change: financing, particularly through the “Global Climate Fund.”
He emphasised that the UAE’s success is a success for the entire Arab world in addressing this global challenge.
In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Dr. al-Baour expressed his hope for further announcements of additional funding in the near future, stressing that addressing climate change is a top priority for the Libyan National Unity Government, as climate change is one of the most significant global issues, and Libya is part of the world.
He emphasised the immense importance of the current edition of the climate conference, following Libya’s experience with Hurricane “Daniel,” which struck the country in September, causing severe loss of li
fe and property.
Al-Baour mentioned Libya’s initial participation in climate conferences starting from COP26 in Glasgow, then COP27 in Egypt, adding that their participation in COP28 aims to present the Libyan strategic vision regarding climate change, especially considering Libya as a Mediterranean country relying on hydrocarbons and petroleum derivatives in its economy.
He added, “We are working on a long-term national plan to promote renewable energy, clean energy, and energy diversity. We are in dialogue with the Arab group and the African Union to benefit from the experiences of countries that have made significant progress in energy transition and clean energy, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Morocco.”
Al-Baour stated that Libya managed to accomplish its plan last year by meeting its entire electricity needs through natural gas instead of liquid fuel such as diesel or crude oil, reducing carbon pollution. He explained that Libya has major projects for solar energy production, including a
50-megawatt experimental project and another alternative energy production project with a capacity of 25 megawatts, emphasising that energy transition requires both knowledge and funding.
The head of the Libyan delegation at COP28 highlighted Libya as a promising country in renewable energies, possessing the highest solar irradiance throughout the year and having the necessary material and natural capabilities.
He pointed out that Libya has signed agreements with Southern Europe for electrical connections, investment rights, and knowledge transfer.
Source: Emirates News Agency