Deputy Prime Minister Professor Biman Prasad emphasized the importance of the Prime Minister’s message regarding the need to keep global temperature increases below 1.5 degrees Celsius.
At the Conference of Parties 29 Delegation Announcement, Prof Prasad indicated that the Fiji delegation must clearly align with the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance, as this goal directly reflects the ambition to limit global average temperature rise.
He described this target as the Pacific’s fundamental principle and guiding aim.
He stated: “Given these priorities, we must also recognize that these are international negotiations. Success comes through consensus, not through voting or aggressive posturing. We need to foster the consensus required to achieve agreements and make collective decisions.”
Prof Prasad expressed confidence in the Coalition Government’s ability to unite various voices within the country and collaborate with regional leaders, experts, and civil society, while bringing this spirit to COP29.
The Minister for Finance highlighted the urgent need to address the escalating impacts of climate change and the gap between the current financing available and what is necessary to build resilience and reshape economies.
He pointed out that COP29 presents an essential chance to tackle this core issue. He expressed appreciation for the collaboration with partners in Suva to create consensus on priorities for Pacific Island countries, preparing negotiators to advocate for their interests in Baku.
Prof Prasad warned against allowing current geopolitical issues to overshadow this opportunity.
He remarked that COP29 presents one of the most challenging agendas in recent times, serving as a foundational event that will influence future implementation strategies and ambitions for climate action. He called for a strong, united voice in these negotiations, stressing the responsibility of civil servants to advocate for the people and future generations with clear and courageous positions.