In preparation for the upcoming 29th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP 29), Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has responded strongly to Unity Fiji Leader Savenaca Narube’s recent comments regarding the composition and funding of Fiji’s delegation to the conference.
Professor Prasad emphasized the significance of Fiji’s representation at the climate conference, indicating that past events have shown larger delegations from Fiji. He referenced the 2017 COP presidency, which included 75 delegates and a total participation of approximately 307, countering Narube’s claims that this year’s representation is unprecedented.
He clarified that the financial burden, nearing $1.2 million, has primarily been covered by external funding, with 91 percent of the costs supported by outside sources. Out of the 56 delegates, 51 have been financed externally, with government funding amounting to around $238,740, which also includes three opposition members and two delegates from the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry.
Prasad remarked on the misleading nature of some opposition statements and underscored the importance of COP29 for Fiji and other Pacific countries facing climate challenges. He highlighted that the conference serves as a pivotal platform for advocating financial support and global cooperation to uphold the 1.5-degree Celsius limit established by the Paris Agreement.
He stressed that successful advocacy at COP will depend not only on technical negotiations but also on high-level political engagement to address crucial issues like climate finance and loss and damage funding. Fiji’s proactive participation in climate diplomacy is deemed vital for forming strategic partnerships and securing essential support for climate resilience.
As COP29 approaches, the delegation plans to collaborate with other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to press for stronger commitments from major greenhouse gas emitters. This conference presents a significant opportunity for Fiji to reinforce its leadership role in climate advocacy, ensuring proactive steps toward a sustainable and resilient future for the Pacific region.
In summary, Professor Prasad’s remarks affirm Fiji’s commitment to addressing climate issues and securing the necessary support at COP29, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in tackling the challenges posed by climate change. With effective representation and strategic partnerships, Fiji aims to lead the way in advocating for a sustainable future for all climate-vulnerable nations.
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