Baron Waqa, Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, emphasized at COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, that climate change represents the foremost existential threat facing Pacific Island nations. He articulated that the increasing sea levels of the Pacific endanger not only the lives of individuals but also the cultural heritage and traditions inherent to these communities.
Waqa remarked, “We save the Pacific; we save the world. Let us not leave here with the future of our Blue Planet hanging in the balance.” He stressed the importance of the 1.5-degree Celsius target outlined in the Paris Agreement, which serves as a crucial benchmark in the Pacific’s battle for survival.
He underscored the necessity for substantial and timely climate finance to safeguard small island developing states, highlighting that the upcoming New Collective Quantified Goal should streamline funding processes to accommodate their unique situations. Waqa also pointed out that a Pacific-led initiative, the Pacific Resilience Facility, is set to become operational in 2026, designed to enhance access to climate finance. He expressed gratitude to the partners who have committed to supporting this essential facility.
Moreover, Waqa noted that contributions to this initiative are not just financial support; they are vital for the future of the Pacific. He called for additional support to strengthen the region’s collaborative efforts, stating, “Financial support alone cannot save our planet without tackling the root causes of climate change.” He emphasized the importance of ensuring a just and equitable transition from fossil fuels to avoid unfair burdens on local communities.
The Secretary General also welcomed the prospect of co-hosting COP31 in Australia, which he believes will provide an opportunity for the Pacific to showcase the urgent threats posed by climate change to its communities and future.
This message reflects a critical call to action, encouraging global leaders to recognize and respond to the unique challenges faced by Pacific Island nations. The proactive approach demonstrated by Waqa and his commitment to fostering international collaboration highlights a hopeful path forward in addressing climate change effectively.
Overall, this underscores the essential collaboration needed globally to combat climate change, showcasing the Pacific Islands as pivotal players in the global conversation on environmental sustainability.
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