During a recent meeting with Omar Shehadeh, the UAE Special Envoy to the Pacific, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad highlighted the urgent need for action regarding climate change. He pointed out the significant vulnerability of the Pacific region, which includes six of the world’s twenty most disaster-prone countries.
Professor Prasad expressed concern over the limited financial resources devoted to climate adaptation in the Pacific, with the region receiving roughly US$220 million annually. This amount falls short of the estimated US$2 billion needed to effectively combat climate change and transition to renewable energy.
The Deputy Prime Minister reiterated Fiji’s commitment to the objectives set forth at COP28, aiming for a 43 percent reduction in emissions by 2030 and targeting net-zero emissions by 2050. He also recognized the UAE’s ongoing support for Fiji, particularly in renewable energy initiatives and educational programs, and expressed hope for continued collaboration to address the pressing climate challenges faced by the Pacific.
By prioritizing climate adaptation and committing to international cooperation, there is a pathway for the Pacific region to enhance its resilience against climate risks, ultimately benefiting its communities and ecosystems.
Overall, this dialogue illustrates the necessity of global partnership in tackling climate change and promotes a united front to secure a sustainable future.
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