Ahead of the upcoming 29th Conference of the Parties (COP 29), Professor Biman Prasad, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, has responded strongly to remarks made by Unity Fiji Leader Savenaca Narube regarding the size and funding of Fiji’s delegation.
In his statement, Professor Prasad underscored the significance of Fiji’s participation in global climate discussions. He pointed out that when Fiji held the COP presidency in 2017, 75 delegates attended, with total numbers swelling to around 307 when considering overflow from party delegations. In contrast, he clarified that COP28 hosted 67 delegates, thereby countering Narube’s claim that the current delegation is the largest in history.
Professor Prasad also brought attention to the funding aspect of the delegation. He indicated that 91 percent of the nearly $1.2 million cost has been covered by external funding, highlighting that 51 out of 56 delegates are not funded by the government. To date, the government’s financial contribution accounts for approximately $238,740, which also includes three opposition members and delegates from two ministries.
Addressing misinformation from opposition politicians, Professor Prasad stressed the importance of COP29 as a platform for securing financial commitments and advocating for decisive international action to maintain the 1.5-degree Celsius limit established by the Paris Agreement. He noted that, as significant climate challenges abound in Fiji and the Pacific, high-level political engagement is crucial to influence outcomes on vital issues like financial commitments and damage compensation.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that Fiji’s active involvement in climate diplomacy is essential for developing strategic partnerships and generating long-term support for climate resilience efforts. He affirmed that participation at COP29 goes beyond mere attendance; it is about garnering the necessary political and financial support to safeguard communities from climate impacts.
As COP29 draws near, Fiji’s delegation is poised to work closely with Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to advocate for stronger resolutions from major polluting nations and to ensure that climate financing meets the urgency of the challenges faced.
Professor Prasad remarked that COP29 represents a pivotal opportunity for Fiji to reinforce its leadership in climate advocacy, which is vital for steering the Pacific toward a sustainable and resilient future.
This ongoing commitment to climate action not only reflects Fiji’s responsibility but also shines a hopeful light on the importance of global cooperation in addressing climate change, emphasizing solidarity and the shared aim of a sustainable future for all vulnerable nations.
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