COP28: UN calls for cooperation, accelerated action among countries

Simon Stiell, executive secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, says only cooperation among nations can get humanity to meet the Paris Agreement goals.

The 28th conference of parties (COP28) commenced today, November 30 and will end on December 12 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This year’s COP marks the conclusion of the global stocktake, the first assessment of global progress in implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement.

Stiell said COP28 is a decisive moment for countries to act on climate commitments and prevent the worst impacts of climate change.

The executive secretary said climate finance at the conference will be crucial to double financial resources for adaptation and build trust in other negotiation areas.

“Over 160 world leaders are headed to Dubai, because only cooperation between nations can get humanity back in this race,” he said.

“But COP28 cannot be just a photo-op. Leaders must deliver — the message is clear.

“And as leaders leave Dubai after the opening summit, their message to their negotiators must be equally clear: don’t come home without a deal that will make a real difference.

“The reality is that without much more finance flowing to developing countries, a renewables revolution will remain a mirage in the desert. COP28 must turn it into a reality.”

Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 president, said there is a need to take urgent actions to reduce emissions.

Jaber said all countries and companies will be held accountable on decisions and deliver on their commitments.

“We don’t have any time to waste. At COP28, every country and every company will be held to account, guided by the north star of keeping 1.5°C within reach,” he said.

“All parties should be prepared to deliver a high ambition decision in response to the global stocktake that reduces emissions while protecting people, lives and livelihoods.”