In a recent statement, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics, Professor Biman Prasad emphasized the government’s commitment to participating in multilateral processes, particularly the climate change Conference of Parties (COP). He highlighted that engaging in these processes is vital for ensuring that Fiji’s challenges are recognized and addressed on a global platform.
Underlining the thorough preparation leading up to COP, Professor Prasad noted that the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, with the support of the Ministry of Finance, organized a series of technical working group meetings, prepared well-structured policy briefs, devised a communication strategy, and conducted pre-departure briefings for ministers and officials to ensure effective engagement at the conference.
Fiji sent a substantial 57-member delegation to COP, with an impressive 90% of the delegation’s costs covered by external partners and funding arrangements designed to support the participation of small island nations in these critical discussions. The total cost incurred by the Fijian Government for its participation in COP29 was FJD $239,000.
During his remarks, the Deputy Prime Minister identified 14 key thematic areas for engagement at COP, which included critical topics such as climate finance, the impact of climate change on local communities, ocean health, mitigation strategies, adaptation measures, and the role of indigenous peoples and gender in climate action.
Professor Prasad stressed the urgency of addressing the climate crisis, noting that it is essential not only for environmental preservation but also for safeguarding the livelihoods of Fijians and supporting economic stability and growth. He emphasized the necessity of accessing reliable and sufficient climate financing to enable effective responses to the unique challenges faced by small island states.
The Deputy Prime Minister also referenced a significant target set at COP29, which calls for climate financing from both public and private sectors to reach USD $1.3 trillion annually by 2035, with a commitment for developing countries to contribute $300 billion of this amount each year.
This proactive approach signals Fiji’s dedication to combating climate change and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. The mobilization of resources and international support can foster a hopeful outlook for small island states facing the impacts of global warming.
Summary: Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, recently emphasized the government’s commitment to multilateral engagement at climate conferences, highlighting the thorough preparations made for COP29. With a 57-member delegation largely funded by external partners, Fiji focused on 14 thematic areas crucial for its climate strategy. Prasad underscored the necessity of climate financing, aiming for significant financial targets by 2035 to support small island nations effectively.
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