Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, took part in the opening of the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) on 1 December. The conference is hosted by the United Arab Emirates from 30 November to 12 December in Dubai.
Gamal Roshdy, the spokesman for the Secretary-General, said that Mr. Aboul Gheit participated in the high-level proceedings of the conference held under the theme "Global Climate Action Summit." The opening was conducted by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, in the presence of leaders and heads of government from around the world.
The spokesman highlighted that during his visit, Mr. Aboul Gheit commended the UAE's efforts in hosting the summit and its unwavering commitment to building a global consensus to strengthen international actions against the effects of climate change. He also noted the ambitious goals of the summit, aiming to accelerate the implementation of plans for transitioning to a greener environment, achieving zero emissions by 2050 without hindering the sustainable development agenda. Additionally, Mr. Aboul Gheit emphasised the importance of acknowledging the right of developing countries to eradicate poverty and implement their development plans.
Mr. Aboul Gheit stressed the necessity of advancing the implementation of commitments to ensure a balanced climate effort in line with countries' resources and their responsibility towards greenhouse gas emissions. This includes doubling financial resources for adaptation, facilitating access for developing countries, activating mechanisms for loss and damage, technology transfer, and other initiatives agreed upon by world leaders at the COP27 climate summit in Sharm El Sheikh.
Expressing full confidence in the UAE's capability to make the climate summit successful, Mr. Aboul Gheit anticipates new commitments that will expedite the implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Roshdy noted that on the sidelines of his participation, the Secretary-General conducted an inspection visit to the League of Arab States' pavilion at the climate summit—a historic participation hosting over 50 events reflecting Arab engagement with climate change issues from 3 December to 10 December.
Mr. Aboul Gheit extended deep appreciation to the UAE government for its active contribution to establishing the pavilion, reaffirming the League's commitment to contributing to the summit's success and advocating for Arab positions throughout the event.
