Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad has emphasized the Prime Minister’s appeal for global efforts to limit temperature increases to below 1.5 degrees Celsius. While addressing the Delegation Announcement for the Conference of Parties 29, Prof Prasad underscored the significance of the Fiji delegation’s commitment to the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance, which he described as crucial for maintaining this temperature threshold.
He noted that this goal represents the Pacific’s critical boundary and serves as their guiding principle. “Bearing these priorities in mind, we recognize that these are international negotiations where consensus is key, rather than voting or boastfulness. We aim to foster the consensus necessary to reach agreements collectively,” he stated.
The Minister for Finance highlighted the urgent issues stemming from climate change, including its impact on sustainable development and security, as well as the substantial gap between current climate finance and the funds needed to achieve long-lasting resilience and economic transformation.
Prof Prasad expressed optimism about COP29, stating that it presents a crucial opportunity to tackle these fundamental issues. He met with partners in Suva to strengthen the consensus on the priorities of Pacific Island nations and to inspire negotiators as they represent their interests in Baku.
He also urged that this opportunity should not be overshadowed by geopolitical conflicts. “COP29 presents one of the most challenging agendas in recent times. While it may not be a milestone event, it lays the groundwork for future implementation and ambition that will influence actions for decades to come. This moment requires a strong, united voice across various agendas and negotiations. It is our duty as civil servants, representing our communities and future generations, to craft a bold and strategic narrative and firmly advocate for clear and audacious positions,” he concluded.