Team Fiji is gearing up for a challenging endeavor at the upcoming “Finance COP,” where they aim to advocate for essential climate adaptation funding and highlight the unique challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) amidst major greenhouse gas emitters. The Fijian delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad, is set to depart shortly as they prepare for their participation in the crucial event.
In a media briefing, Professor Prasad emphasized the necessity of addressing the specific needs and vulnerabilities of SIDS like Fiji. He pointed out that while discussions often center on mitigation efforts, focus should also extend to adaptation funding, particularly due to the damage wrought by increasingly severe weather events such as cyclones and floods. Prasad remarked that the Pacific nations are disproportionately affected by the impacts of climate change and urged for a deeper understanding of the financial support required to address loss and damage already experienced and anticipated in the future.
Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua, also underscored the importance of diplomacy in these discussions. She expressed hope that as Fiji amplifies its voice, it could inspire other smaller nations to join in solidarity. Qereqeretabua asserted that while Fiji does not claim to represent everyone, their presence at COP29 is crucial as it affects the entire Pacific region.
Dr. Sivendra Michael, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, joined in highlighting the vital necessity of Fiji being present at the negotiating table to ensure their concerns are voiced adequately.
The COP29 conference is scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, presenting Fiji with an opportunity to advocate for the vital financial resources required to adapt to climate change challenges.
In summary, Fiji’s proactive stance at COP29 aims not only to secure funding for adaptation efforts but also to unite the voices of smaller states, fostering resilience against the ongoing challenges posed by climate change. This endeavor displays the commitment of the Fijian delegation to not merely highlight their struggles but also those of their Pacific neighbors, creating a collective call for global action on climate adaptation.
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