Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, emphasized the nation’s commitment to advocating for an equitable, swift, and financially backed transition away from fossil fuels, highlighting this as a critical component in the struggle for climate justice.
During a press conference at the Conference of Parties 29, Prof Prasad articulated the necessity for a comprehensive financial framework that provides robust resources to assist all nations in moving away from fossil fuel dependency. He underscored the vulnerability of Pacific Island nations to the adverse effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, extreme weather patterns, and disrupted ecosystems, which pose serious threats to their homes, health, and way of life.
Prof Prasad pointed out that Pacific Island nations have historically been strong advocates for climate justice, playing a pivotal role in promoting essential global climate goals. He reiterated the Pacific’s influence in establishing the critical goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, securing significant advancements regarding loss and damage, and engaging in pivotal international legal cases relevant to climate issues.
He stressed the urgency for immediate and focused collective action, advocating for the adoption of a fossil fuel non-proliferation treaty as a vital step forward in this collective effort.
This call to action not only reveals the ongoing challenges faced by Pacific nations but also showcases their resilience and proactive stance in global environmental advocacy. It offers a hopeful perspective that through collaboration and determination, meaningful progress can be made towards a sustainable future.
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