COP28 President Calls for Unanimous Global Climate Action Ahead of Dubai Summit

ABU DHABI – Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, the President of COP28, spoke at the opening session of Pre-COP, asserting that international collaboration on climate action is urgent and critical.

According to Africa Science News, Pre-COP is taking place in Abu Dhabi and serves as a preparatory gathering for ministers and negotiators leading up to COP28. This year’s event has attracted a record-breaking number of participants, with 70 ministers and over 100 delegations in attendance, more than double the usual turnout for such meetings.

Acknowledging the divisions plaguing the global community, Dr. Al Jaber emphasized the need for unity on climate action, stating that the world must send “a clear message of hope, solidarity, stability, and prosperity.” He argued that current efforts, although improved since the Paris Agreement, are still inadequate for keeping global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Dr. Al Jaber called for improved efficacy in forming agreements on key issues and cautioned against wasting time on disunity. He advocated for the need to prioritize long-term benefits over short-term gains and redefine self-interest as a common interest. “Let this process prove that multilateralism still works,” he said.

The President outlined specific focus areas for COP28, which include strong mitigation outcomes, comprehensive adaptation agreements, and innovative financial solutions. He added that promises made at previous meetings, including those in Sharm el Sheikh, must be fulfilled in Dubai. Specifically, he mentioned the need to cut emissions by 43% by 2030 and the importance of including language on fossil fuels and renewables in the negotiated text.

Updating the gathering on policy measures, Dr. Al Jaber revealed that more than 20 oil and gas companies have committed to ending methane emissions by 2030, and discussions are ongoing with high-emitting sectors like heavy transportation and steel for credible decarbonization plans. On financial commitments, he highlighted the need to channel capital to where it is most needed, particularly in the Global South.

He concluded by emphasizing the gravity of the situation, reminding the attendees that “the world is watching” and underscored the necessity for collective action. “We have the power, we must accept the responsibility,” Dr. Al Jaber concluded. “This process must not fail. We have to come through. We must deliver in Dubai.”