ABU DHABI – Sustainability remains at the heart of the UAE’s support for global climate action and there is an urgent need to enhance international solidarity and cooperation in pursuit of practical solutions to climate challenges, said UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Sheikh Mohamed made these remarks while receiving the team overseeing the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) at Qasr Al Bahr Majlis. The meeting was attended by members of the National Higher Committee responsible for COP28 UAE preparations.
The COP28 team briefed Sheikh Mohamed on the conference preparations and the four pillars of the COP28 Action Agenda: fast-tracking a just and orderly energy transition; fixing climate finance; centering nature, lives, and livelihoods in climate action; and enhancing inclusivity in national climate action.
Sheikh Mohamed affirmed that hosting COP28 builds on the UAE’s legacy of environmental stewardship, championed by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE. He emphasized the role of youth, women, and civil society in mobilizing international efforts to combat climate change. He noted that the UAE is inviting the world to cooperate and take collective action for the benefit of the global community. He underscored the COP28 team’s efforts to accelerate effective climate action in light of the climate crisis, stating that under the UAE Presidency, COP28 will lead global efforts to protect the planet and safeguard future generations.
Sheikh Mohamed stressed that the UAE will leverage its international partnerships to pursue inclusive dialogue and cooperation, focusing on practical climate solutions and sustainable social and economic development.
He underscored the importance of preparations for COP28, highlighting the UAE’s capabilities, including modern infrastructure, a strong track record in sustainability and environmental conservation, recognition as a successful convener of global events, and deep-rooted relations with other countries. He commended the efforts of the COP28 team in overseeing the conference and working towards its objectives.
Members of the Higher Committee overseeing COP28 preparations include H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Higher Committee; Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change, and Vice Chairman of the COP28 UAE Higher Committee; and other ministers and officials from various government departments and agencies.