Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad stated that Fiji and the Pacific require more than ten times the current financial resources available to address climate-related challenges.
During a meeting with members of the COP29 delegation last week, he highlighted the significant obstacles Fiji faces due to climate change. Professor Prasad pointed out that the country needs to construct over 200 sea walls, relocate more than 40 villages, and protect 100,000 hectares of farmland from saltwater intrusion. Additionally, hundreds of village health centers and schools that are not connected to the national grid urgently require off-grid renewable energy solutions. Approximately 80,000 children in Fiji lack access to electricity, making it difficult for them to complete homework or read, and they need to be connected to sustainable energy sources.
He mentioned long-term damage to infrastructure, including airports, jetties, schools, and health facilities that require urgent repair and reconstruction due to repeated extreme weather events. There is also a need to enhance resilience in health centers and medical facilities and ensure food and water security that can withstand the impacts of current and future climate change.
Professor Prasad emphasized that these measures are essential for achieving long-term climate security in Fiji. He noted the complexities posed by ongoing debates regarding the roles of contributors and recipients of climate funds.
He remarked, “The traditional distinctions between providers and recipients are fiercely contested.” He stressed the importance of diplomatic navigation in these discussions, advocating for a focus on science and a call for pragmatic solutions when political barriers arise.
Moreover, he clarified that the ambitions set through the new collective quantified goal (NCQG) are directly linked to the goal of keeping the global average temperature rise below 1.5 degrees Celsius. He stated that the goals reflect the commitment of developed countries to address the loss and damage experienced by vulnerable nations like Fiji and inform the potential for climate-resilient development.
Professor Prasad will lead the Fijian delegation to COP29, which is set to take place in less than three weeks in Baku, Azerbaijan.