Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council (FNC), today opened the parliamentary meeting accompanying the UN Climate Conference (COP28), organised by the FNC in cooperation with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), with the participation of 30 Speakers of Parliament and 500 parliamentarians and experts representing 100 parliaments and international organisations worldwide.
In his speech, FNC Speaker expressed his gratitude to the IPU for their partnership in organising the conference, as well as to the COP28 Presidency and the UAE Climate Change Team for their tireless efforts in facilitating the event. He also commended the progress made at COP28, highlighting the establishment of a US$30 billion fund for global climate solutions and the activation of the Loss and Damage Fund to assist developing countries in addressing the impacts of climate change.
He praised these achievements as victories for humanity and Planet Earth, and as a testament to the shared responsibility of all nations to addres
s the climate crisis.
Ghobash emphasised that climate change has been a top priority for the UAE since its inception in 1971. The country’s leadership has pursued a two-pronged approach to address climate change: investing in clean and renewable energy sources and developing the necessary infrastructure to achieve carbon neutrality, and establishing sound and transparent legislative frameworks to guide the transition towards sustainable development in all sectors.
Tulia Ackson, President of the IPU, commended the UAE for its successful hosting of COP28, praising the country’s approach, work, communication, and partnership with developing countries in achieving the sustainability objectives of addressing climate change.
Martin Chungong, the eighth Secretary General of the IPU, expressed his gratitude to the UAE for its excellent organisation, the achievements made, and the comprehensive and participatory approach taken in organising the conference.
In his address, Ambassador Majid Al Suwaidi, Director-Gene
ral and Special Representative of COP28, extended a warm welcome to the participants of the inter-parliamentary meeting in the UAE.
He expressed his gratitude to the IPU and the FNC for organising these crucial discussions, acknowledging the significant role they will play in shaping the outcomes of the Conference of the Parties.
Al Suwaidi noted that this is the first time the inter-parliamentary meeting has been held within the Green Zone, a testament to the UAE’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration on climate action.
Source: Emirates News Agency