COP28, the UAE Consensus and the EU: A Milestone in Multilateral Unity for Climate Action - EURACTIV

COP28, the UAE Consensus and the EU: A Milestone in Multilateral Unity for Climate Action - EURACTIV.com
By H.E Mohamed Al Sahlawi | United Arab Emirates to the European Union Est. 5min 21-12-2023 Content-Type: Advertiser Content Advertiser Content An Article that an external entity has paid to place or to produce to its specifications. Includes advertorials, sponsored content, native advertising and other paid content. [Fly Of Swallow Studio | Shutterstock] Euractiv is part of the Trust Project >>> Print Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Telegram As the curtains fall on COP28, the global community can collectively take a breath of relief, having achieved significant milestones in the fight against climate change. By H.E Mohamed Al Sahlawi, who is the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the European Union For the first time since nations began meeting three decades ago to confront climate change, an agreement allowing us to set in motion an irreversible, accelerated transition away from fossil fuels, was adopted. This year’s Conference, hosted in the spirit of unity, cooperation, and shared responsibility by its COP28 President H.E Sultan Al-Jaber, marked a crucial turning point in our commitment to safeguarding our planet for future generations. It demonstrated the power of international collaboration. The discussions and agreements reached during the Conference demonstrated that multilateral efforts can indeed yield positive results when nations come together with a common purpose. After 14 days of constant engagement, 198 parties united behind the UAE Consensus, agreeing together to take a new path for the world through an enhanced, balanced, and historic package to accelerate climate action. As the UAE Ambassador to the EU, I am proud to witness the fruits of our joint efforts and the diplomatic success that unfolded in the spirit of collaboration between nations worldwide, and particularly with our European Union partners. The EU and the UAE demonstrated collaborative leadership by working closely together throughout the conference. Joint initiatives, shared commitments, and aligned policy positions showcased a unified approach to addressing climate change, reinforcing the strength of the diplomatic relationship between us. The shared dedication to substantial emissions reduction goals, as well as ambitious timelines for achieving net-zero emissions, demonstrated a common understanding of the urgency of addressing climate challenges. Showing that our goals are shared, we can only move forward hand in hand, building on a strong UAE-EU partnership as a driving force in global climate action. Indeed, the UAE and the EU are both on par regarding ambitious renewable energy development goals. EU member states represent the world’s largest renewable energy development and deployment power and account for 93% of global renewable capacity. The UAE, for its part, has always shown a longer-term commitment to renewable energy and innovation. Our nation’s investments in cutting-edge technologies, such as solar and wind power, not only contribute to our domestic goals but also aim to serve as a model for other nations in the region and beyond, seeking to embrace a sustainable and green future. Collaborative initiatives and technology-sharing agreements forged between the EU and the UAE during the conference will no doubt contribute to the advancement of both regions in the transition to a green economy. Both the UAE and the EU took negotiations seriously, enabling the COP28 team to reach an agreement that we can all be proud of. One that will change the course of climate action, and that of our collective future. Together, the UAE and the EU pushed for an array of agreements and commitments, including one by 130 countries to triple installed renewable capacity and double the pace of energy efficiency improvements in all sectors by 2030. Overall, countries committed over USD 85 billion and 11 pledges for energy, finance, or other climate funds, in a show of unprecedented multilateral unity. Both the UAE and the EU are the largest contributors to funds essential to support developing countries in the process of adapting to the impacts of climate change, and are committed to the target set for developed countries in the Paris Agreement. This COP also provided space for all voices, including those of the Members of the European Parliament, for the first time, as they joined us in Dubai and participated in the discussions, meeting with ministers, civil society representatives, leaders of international climate organizations and other delegates. This space for more inclusive discussions allowed for both the UAE and the EU to exchange information, expertise, and strengthen trusting relationships around open dialogue. I have no doubt that the COP28 outcomes will serve as a foundation to further strengthen UAE-EU relations. The shared commitment to climate action not only addresses a global challenge but also fosters deeper cooperation in various sectors, including trade, security, and cultural exchange. Indeed, the success of the EU-UAE diplomacy at COP28 goes beyond bilateral relations. The joint efforts of the EU and the UAE had a considerable impact on shaping global climate policy. By presenting a united front and influencing the discourse on climate action, both entities played a crucial role in driving the international community toward more ambitious and effective climate measures. Nevertheless, we also know that our work is far from complete, and that the road ahead is paved with challenges that require continued commitment, innovation, and collaboration. As we move forward, I trust that the EU and the UAE will continue to work hand in hand, seizing the opportunities that arise from our successful diplomatic efforts at COP28 and ensuring a brighter, greener future for all. While it may be challenging, I know that together, we can navigate it with determination, solidarity, and a shared commitment to safeguarding our planet for generations to come. Print Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Telegram Topics climate action COP28 Global Europe promoted Renewable Energy UAE