UAE attends high-level leaders event, marking the opening of the pivotal UN climate negotiations in Paris

01/12/2015

Members from the United Arab Emirates' delegation joined heads of states and key government officials yesterday at the United Nations' Leaders Event, marking the opening of the 21st session of Conference of Parties (COP21) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the highly anticipated climate change negotiations hosted in Paris.

The UAE joins more than 190 nations who are gathered to discuss a binding universal agreement to tackle the threat of climate change.

"As nations unite in Paris, we are witnessing a historic moment in the global efforts to address climate change," said Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of State and Special Envoy for Energy and Climate Change. "The UAE remains optimistic that a successful, fair and binding outcome can be achieved in Paris – setting a course for a sustainable, prosperous future."

Hosted by French President Francois Hollande, the high-level Leaders Event was attended by Secretary General of the United Nations Ban Ki-Moon and U.S. President Barack Obama and other heads of state and governments. The French president presented opening remarks, encouraging meaningful and practical action in the weeks ahead.

Dr. Al Jaber, head of the UAE delegation to COP21, attended the event on behalf of the UAE.

"Tackling climate change is a top priority for our country and is also an opportunity to create sustainable economic growth," Dr. Al Jaber said. "Climate action is strategically aligned with the UAE's drive to diversify its economy and create lasting knowledge-based sectors that can power our country for generations."

The UAE is a key global partner in addressing climate change. The country advocates for an agreement that provides a flexible approach that encourages all nations to take ambitious action, but allows to do so in ways that fit their national circumstances. The UAE also believes that developed countries need to fulfil their pledge to provide funding and other support to enable developing countries to transition to a low-carbon economy and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

The Paris climate conference is expected to conclude on December 11 with a new universal agreement to govern climate action after 2020 which will move the world one step closer in addressing climate change.