As the 29th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP29) approaches, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad has responded strongly to Unity Fiji Leader Savenaca Narube regarding comments made about the size and funding of Fiji’s delegation. Professor Prasad underscored the significance of Fiji’s representation at such a crucial climate event.
In his statement, he pointed out incorrect claims by Narube, asserting that Fiji’s current delegation is not the largest in history. He noted that during Fiji’s presidency of COP in 2017, the delegation included 75 representatives, while COP28 last year had 67. This year’s delegation consists of 56 members, with 91 percent of its nearly $1.2 million cost being funded externally.
According to Professor Prasad, out of the total expenses incurred for the delegation, $960,065 has been covered by external parties, while the government has contributed $238,739.77, which includes funding for three members from the Opposition and two representatives from the Ministries of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry.
He criticized the misleading information circulated by some opposition politicians, emphasizing the importance of good representation at COP29. Prasad reiterated that Fiji, alongside other Pacific nations, faces substantial challenges from climate change and that the conference offers a critical avenue to secure financial commitments and advocate for global measures to maintain the 1.5-degree Celsius limit set by the Paris Agreement.
COP29, according to the Deputy Prime Minister, is not just an opportunity to show up; it’s about gaining political and financial support to bolster climate resilience for communities adversely affected by climate change. He expressed that a reduction in Fiji’s participation could undermine the country’s ability to advocate for the region’s future and the needs of climate-vulnerable nations.
As Fiji prepares for COP29, the delegation is focusing on collaboration with other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to urge major greenhouse gas emitters to make stronger commitments and ensure climate financing that reflects the urgency of the issue. Professor Prasad highlighted COP29 as a pivotal moment for Fiji to strengthen its leadership in climate advocacy and enhance the Pacific’s role in driving the agenda for a sustainable future.
In summary, Fiji’s commitment to COP29 exemplifies its proactive stance in climate diplomacy, aiming for collective efforts to address the climate crisis. The narrative reflects hope and determination as the nation seeks not only to advocate for its interests but also to champion the cause of vulnerable nations facing the brunt of climate change.
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