Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber highlights the dividends and economic potential of joint focus on renewables at the COP28 forum
Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and COP28 President-designate, applauded India's unwavering commitment to sustainable energy transition during the 'From G20 to COP28' forum in Abu Dhabi, where leaders convened to discuss essential climate actions.
Dr Al Jaber acknowledged the shared vision for cleaner energy between the UAE and India, underscoring the economic opportunities that the mutual focus could unlock.
The UAE has led renewable energy initiatives, with major solar projects and significant global investments in the sector. Dr Al Jaber thanked India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, for his leadership in delivering the G20 Delhi Declaration and advancing core climate actions.
Looking ahead to COP28, Dr Al Jaber outlined ambitions to view climate action as a growth opportunity, emphasizing the need for balanced outcomes in mitigation, adaptation, and implementation. He stressed the urgent need for a "new paradigm" in climate finance, calling for the fulfilment of pledges and transforming the climate finance landscape.
Dr Al Jaber advocated for a fair and inclusive global energy transition, highlighting the accessibility of clean technologies in the global south. He called for a rebalancing of climate finance, focusing on adaptation alongside mitigation, addressing the current imbalance.
In conclusion, Dr Al Jaber urged a shift from discord to solidarity at COP28, emphasizing the potential of multilateralism to inspire hope through united climate action. His address followed the UNFCCC Transitional Committee's agreement on Loss and Damage Fund recommendations. The COP28 is to implement these recommendations, marking a significant step in global climate efforts.