Excellencies, colleagues,
Since I last wrote in July, many parts of the world have experienced record temperatures and severe climate shocks. From the devastation of Derna to Lahaina, mounting climate impacts are destroying lives and livelihoods in every corner of our world. But as we continue to listen and engage with you and many others, there are strong signs of hope and optimism. From global to local, young to old, we recognize a renewed confidence around action, and a hunger for ambitious solutions. It is our collective responsibility to deliver for many across the globe who are imparting their trust upon us.
As COP President, I am asking you for your help to ensure that we can deliver a comprehensive plan of action at COP28 and meet the level of ambition the world needs. I therefore call for your partnership, your collaboration, and your leadership.
The latest science from the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report highlights that we are way off track from pathways consistent with keeping 1.5°C and the Paris Goals within reach. The report and real-world impacts underscore the need for us to turn ambition into action and to replace rhetoric with real results. We need to think bigger and implement quicker to reduce global emissions by 43% relative to 2019 levels by 2030, radically scale up climate financing, and engage in enhanced adaptation action to build resilience and avoid irreversible impacts.
The challenge we face is immense. While there is a rapidly closing window to course correct, there are key opportunities for the swift scale up of climate action and for climate-positive investments that catalyze a growth trajectory to achieve shared prosperity. We need to harness these opportunities to go after the 22 gigatons of GHG emissions that we need to cut in the next seven years and to accelerate the transition to new low-emission, high-growth, sustainable economic models in a way that is transformational and addresses the dual challenges of climate and development in a just and equitable way. That is why the Incoming Presidency laid out an ambitious agenda in July, focused on four paradigm shifts to guide our work under the negotiating mandates and the Presidency’s Action Agenda:
As we move closer to COP28, we are witnessing progress and growing political momentum from leaders and the climate community to pursue solutions across these priorities. At the Amazon Summit, countries in the Amazon mobilized around the Belém Declaration to protect the world’s biggest rainforest. In Kenya, African leaders agreed on an ambitious push to accelerate climate action in the Nairobi Declaration, including a strong call to land a comprehensive outcome on the GST at COP28 and to develop a Global Climate Finance Charter. In New Delhi, the G20 highlighted the importance of ambitious action on all pillars of the Paris Agreement, including the fulfilment of the $100 billion by developed countries, efforts to triple renewable energy capacity globally, a holistic approach that takes into account all technological solutions in accordance with the science, and a commitment to accelerate investment in climate-resilient food systems.
At UNGA, we heard the need to move beyond pledges and to tangible actions, policies, and plans. The Alliance of Small Island States called to urgently provide sufficient, new, predictable, and accessible financing for addressing loss and damage. The Ministerial on Loss and Damage underscored Parties’ commitment to COP28 delivering the operationalization of the fund and funding arrangements at speed and scale for the most climate vulnerable. We intend to build on this collective progress and ensure that COP28 becomes a defining milestone for Parties to accelerate action and deliver real results. As we head into the final 43 days before COP28, with preparations well underway for leaders and negotiators to convene at this most critical moment, we would like to share our vision on how we can work together over the two weeks of COP28 and our expectations for the negotiations and the World Climate Action Summit (WCAS).
We invite leaders to attend the World Climate Action Summit on December 1st and 2nd and to come prepared to respond to the existing gaps in climate action, with increased ambition and accelerated implementation, to enable material progress building on the outcomes of COP27. All leaders will be invited to make National Statements and outline their concrete commitments to bring the world on track. The Presidency will also host several events centered on our four paradigm shifts. Leaders with transformative actions focused on these priorities will be given the stage at thematic sessions. We encourage your sustained close engagement with the Incoming Presidency team to understand the contributions you are planning to make.
Following WCAS, each day at COP will be based on thematic areas, responding to extensive consultation with Parties and stakeholders. The program for December 3rd to 10th, which can be found on the COP28 website, reflects the topics that were repeatedly raised during consultations. These include annual features of the COP agenda such as energy, finance and youth, and new, essential topics like health, food systems, and the inclusion of children.
Since I last wrote in July, many parts of the world have experienced record temperatures and severe climate shocks. From the devastation of Derna to Lahaina, mounting climate impacts are destroying lives and livelihoods in every corner of our world. But as we continue to listen and engage with you and many others, there are strong signs of hope and optimism. From global to local, young to old, we recognize a renewed confidence around action, and a hunger for ambitious solutions. It is our collective responsibility to deliver for many across the globe who are imparting their trust upon us.
As COP President, I am asking you for your help to ensure that we can deliver a comprehensive plan of action at COP28 and meet the level of ambition the world needs. I therefore call for your partnership, your collaboration, and your leadership.
The latest science from the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report highlights that we are way off track from pathways consistent with keeping 1.5°C and the Paris Goals within reach. The report and real-world impacts underscore the need for us to turn ambition into action and to replace rhetoric with real results. We need to think bigger and implement quicker to reduce global emissions by 43% relative to 2019 levels by 2030, radically scale up climate financing, and engage in enhanced adaptation action to build resilience and avoid irreversible impacts.
The challenge we face is immense. While there is a rapidly closing window to course correct, there are key opportunities for the swift scale up of climate action and for climate-positive investments that catalyze a growth trajectory to achieve shared prosperity. We need to harness these opportunities to go after the 22 gigatons of GHG emissions that we need to cut in the next seven years and to accelerate the transition to new low-emission, high-growth, sustainable economic models in a way that is transformational and addresses the dual challenges of climate and development in a just and equitable way. That is why the Incoming Presidency laid out an ambitious agenda in July, focused on four paradigm shifts to guide our work under the negotiating mandates and the Presidency’s Action Agenda:
- Fast-tracking the just, equitable and orderly energy transition and slashing emissions before 2030;
- Transforming climate finance by delivering on old promises and setting the framework for a new deal on finance;
- Putting nature, people, lives and livelihoods at the heart of climate action;
- Mobilizing for an inclusive COP.
As we move closer to COP28, we are witnessing progress and growing political momentum from leaders and the climate community to pursue solutions across these priorities. At the Amazon Summit, countries in the Amazon mobilized around the Belém Declaration to protect the world’s biggest rainforest. In Kenya, African leaders agreed on an ambitious push to accelerate climate action in the Nairobi Declaration, including a strong call to land a comprehensive outcome on the GST at COP28 and to develop a Global Climate Finance Charter. In New Delhi, the G20 highlighted the importance of ambitious action on all pillars of the Paris Agreement, including the fulfilment of the $100 billion by developed countries, efforts to triple renewable energy capacity globally, a holistic approach that takes into account all technological solutions in accordance with the science, and a commitment to accelerate investment in climate-resilient food systems.
At UNGA, we heard the need to move beyond pledges and to tangible actions, policies, and plans. The Alliance of Small Island States called to urgently provide sufficient, new, predictable, and accessible financing for addressing loss and damage. The Ministerial on Loss and Damage underscored Parties’ commitment to COP28 delivering the operationalization of the fund and funding arrangements at speed and scale for the most climate vulnerable. We intend to build on this collective progress and ensure that COP28 becomes a defining milestone for Parties to accelerate action and deliver real results. As we head into the final 43 days before COP28, with preparations well underway for leaders and negotiators to convene at this most critical moment, we would like to share our vision on how we can work together over the two weeks of COP28 and our expectations for the negotiations and the World Climate Action Summit (WCAS).
We invite leaders to attend the World Climate Action Summit on December 1st and 2nd and to come prepared to respond to the existing gaps in climate action, with increased ambition and accelerated implementation, to enable material progress building on the outcomes of COP27. All leaders will be invited to make National Statements and outline their concrete commitments to bring the world on track. The Presidency will also host several events centered on our four paradigm shifts. Leaders with transformative actions focused on these priorities will be given the stage at thematic sessions. We encourage your sustained close engagement with the Incoming Presidency team to understand the contributions you are planning to make.
Following WCAS, each day at COP will be based on thematic areas, responding to extensive consultation with Parties and stakeholders. The program for December 3rd to 10th, which can be found on the COP28 website, reflects the topics that were repeatedly raised during consultations. These include annual features of the COP agenda such as energy, finance and youth, and new, essential topics like health, food systems, and the inclusion of children.
COP28/CMP18/CMA5 Negotiations
The negotiated outcomes at COP28 will mark an inflection point and a test of the international community
to deliver for climate action. As Presidency, we stress upon the need for ambition across all outcomes and
the need for implementation to be undertaken in light of equity and the best available science, as well as
in light of national circumstances to ensure they can be implemented by all. In this context, we recognize
the importance of the principles and provisions of the Convention and the Paris Agreement.
To support political engagement and gain a comprehensive understanding of Parties’ concerns and expectations across all negotiating tracks, I have sought the support of a group of experienced Ministers to undertake political consultations on the Global Stocktake, Means of Implementation, Adaptation and Mitigation. Their work aims to facilitate political engagement across the issues pertaining to the outcomes at COP28 and shall not duplicate ongoing technical negotiations but rather support their progress. These consultations will take place throughout October and at Pre-COP, with a view to ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the critical areas where Parties need to further collaborate to secure an ambitious and inclusive outcome.
Pre-COP will be a critical platform for Ministers to engage and narrow the gaps on issues across all mandated outcomes. The agenda for Pre-COP is designed to encourage live dialogue between Ministers. I will be looking to unlock progress and press Ministers on all challenging issues that are key to a high ambition outcome. I call on Ministers to come prepared to engage in the spirit of flexibility and unity that the world is expecting of us less than a month out from COP28. Ahead of Pre-COP, the Presidency will work with the Ministerial Pairs on a concept note to guide discussions. A Chair’s summary of the Pre-COP discussion will be provided to all Parties.
Given the urgency and heavy workload in Dubai, it is essential that we start work immediately and have a smooth adoption of the agenda on day one. With a view to ensuring that all Parties’ concerns are understood and addressed, we will also be holding consultations at Pre-COP on this matter. It is my expectation that Ministers can arrive at a preliminary understanding regarding the adoption of the agenda for the Governing and Subsidiary Bodies under an umbrella of trust and mutual understanding to launch work at the opening of the Conference.
To support political engagement and gain a comprehensive understanding of Parties’ concerns and expectations across all negotiating tracks, I have sought the support of a group of experienced Ministers to undertake political consultations on the Global Stocktake, Means of Implementation, Adaptation and Mitigation. Their work aims to facilitate political engagement across the issues pertaining to the outcomes at COP28 and shall not duplicate ongoing technical negotiations but rather support their progress. These consultations will take place throughout October and at Pre-COP, with a view to ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the critical areas where Parties need to further collaborate to secure an ambitious and inclusive outcome.
Pre-COP will be a critical platform for Ministers to engage and narrow the gaps on issues across all mandated outcomes. The agenda for Pre-COP is designed to encourage live dialogue between Ministers. I will be looking to unlock progress and press Ministers on all challenging issues that are key to a high ambition outcome. I call on Ministers to come prepared to engage in the spirit of flexibility and unity that the world is expecting of us less than a month out from COP28. Ahead of Pre-COP, the Presidency will work with the Ministerial Pairs on a concept note to guide discussions. A Chair’s summary of the Pre-COP discussion will be provided to all Parties.
Given the urgency and heavy workload in Dubai, it is essential that we start work immediately and have a smooth adoption of the agenda on day one. With a view to ensuring that all Parties’ concerns are understood and addressed, we will also be holding consultations at Pre-COP on this matter. It is my expectation that Ministers can arrive at a preliminary understanding regarding the adoption of the agenda for the Governing and Subsidiary Bodies under an umbrella of trust and mutual understanding to launch work at the opening of the Conference.
GLOBAL STOCKTAKE
This year marks a pivotal moment in the implementation of the Paris Agreement as we conclude the first ever
GST.
On the sidelines of UNGA, we hosted an informal Ministerial consultation on the GST where ministers outlined their views and expectations for its outcome. More recently, negotiators engaged constructively under the mandated workshop on the elements for the outcome of the GST in Abu Dhabi. The High-Level Committee also shared an update on the High-Level events on the GST that will take place at WCAS.
On the sidelines of UNGA, we hosted an informal Ministerial consultation on the GST where ministers outlined their views and expectations for its outcome. More recently, negotiators engaged constructively under the mandated workshop on the elements for the outcome of the GST in Abu Dhabi. The High-Level Committee also shared an update on the High-Level events on the GST that will take place at WCAS.
The workshop reaffirmed all Parties’ determination to deliver a meaningful GST outcome. Building on the
work done under the Technical Dialogues and Parties’ Submissions, we are confident that the Subsidiary
Body Chairs can assist Parties via their informal report and informal virtual intersessional discussions over
the following weeks. This will help the Joint Contact Group on the GST progress as much as possible on
the negotiated outcome.
There is a level of convergence on the need to deliver a meaningful outcome that responds to the existing gaps, to progress achieved, and informs ambition and implementation going forward in accordance with the provisions of the Paris Agreement.
However, differences remain on some very important issues such as addressing equity considerations, ensuring that there is coherence between the ambition on action with ambition on implementation and support and the consideration of pre-2020 elements in the context of the GST outcome.
To this end, the Incoming Presidency reiterates the call to Parties to work together towards a set of comprehensive messages for the GST to communicate to the world on the future of climate action on the basis of both science and equity.
WCAS will serve as the platform to hold the High-Level Events for the consideration of outputs on the GST to provide guidance to the conclusion of its political phase. The GST High-Level Committee envisages that, at these events, leaders will identify opportunities for and challenges in enhancing action, support, and international cooperation, providing key political messages in relation to the thematic areas of the GST. This will be a decisive input to steer the final stage of the negotiations of the GST outcome.
There is a level of convergence on the need to deliver a meaningful outcome that responds to the existing gaps, to progress achieved, and informs ambition and implementation going forward in accordance with the provisions of the Paris Agreement.
However, differences remain on some very important issues such as addressing equity considerations, ensuring that there is coherence between the ambition on action with ambition on implementation and support and the consideration of pre-2020 elements in the context of the GST outcome.
To this end, the Incoming Presidency reiterates the call to Parties to work together towards a set of comprehensive messages for the GST to communicate to the world on the future of climate action on the basis of both science and equity.
WCAS will serve as the platform to hold the High-Level Events for the consideration of outputs on the GST to provide guidance to the conclusion of its political phase. The GST High-Level Committee envisages that, at these events, leaders will identify opportunities for and challenges in enhancing action, support, and international cooperation, providing key political messages in relation to the thematic areas of the GST. This will be a decisive input to steer the final stage of the negotiations of the GST outcome.
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ADAPTATION
The increasing risks and impacts, including those we have seen this summer, make adaptation a priority
for the success of COP28. The GST outcome must position a clear high-level political signal for
adaptation. Further to this, the delivery of a robust framework for the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) is
fundamental to launch an era of climate action that truly gets behind delivering enhanced resilience and
reduced vulnerability, including by making available the adequate support in the form of substantially
scaled adaptation finance.
On the GGA framework, the Presidency expects that the work under the GLASS over the last two years will
yield results at COP28 by defining a clear set of targets and indicators that guide but not prescribe,
national efforts on adaptation including through strengthening processes such as NAPs and resilience
approaches considered under NDCs. These targets should provide focus to strengthened adaptation
action and support to increase resilience and reduce vulnerability.
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MITIGATION
Mitigation is central to the COP28 outcome and to keeping 1.5°C within reach. The elements for a just
energy transition will be an important signal coming out of COP28 to tackle necessary emissions
reductions, course correct and cut emissions in line with Paris compatible pathways by 2030. At the same
time, we must consider how to build the energy system of tomorrow and work towards a future energy
system that is free of unabated fossil fuels by mid-century including by scaling the deployment of all
available solutions and technologies.
Within this, and building on the outcomes of the G20, the COP28 outcome can further progress enhanced
ambition in high emitting sectors and a just energy transition that includes the tripling of renewable
energy capacity and doubling of energy efficiency, and accelerated deployment of all available solutions
and technologies. This can support a responsible phase down of unabated fossil fuels that ensures
energy security, affordability, and reliability. All of this must effectively tackle the relevant
implementation barriers that need to be addressed to effectively deliver this mitigation potential, in a just
and equitable manner.
The Mitigation Work Programme (MWP) will constitute a platform to advance pre-2030 mitigation and implementation. We look forward to the outcomes of the Second Global Dialogue and Investmentfocused Event in Abu Dhabi from 15-17 October. We call upon Parties to build on the work of the MWP throughout the year to ensure that the decision at CMA5 effectively showcases opportunities and barriers to closing the ambition and implementation gap.
The Mitigation Work Programme (MWP) will constitute a platform to advance pre-2030 mitigation and implementation. We look forward to the outcomes of the Second Global Dialogue and Investmentfocused Event in Abu Dhabi from 15-17 October. We call upon Parties to build on the work of the MWP throughout the year to ensure that the decision at CMA5 effectively showcases opportunities and barriers to closing the ambition and implementation gap.
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LOSS AND DAMAGE
On loss and damage, we need to ensure the new fund for addressing Loss and Damage and funding
arrangements are up and running as soon as possible, as a priority. We cannot delay this by having a
multi-year process to agree on governance. I have been clear with my expectations for the Loss &
Damage Transitional Committee to deliver clean recommendations out of the fourth meeting later this
week. I also encourage early pledges and request your support in being pragmatic to get money flowing
to impacted communities at the scale and speed required.
MEANS OF IMPLEMENTATION
Means of implementation, including finance and finance flows, technology and capacity building for
developing countries, are critical to supporting climate action . There is an urgent need to scale up
financing, in responding the needs and priorities of developing countries, improving access affordability
and availability of finance.
The GST outcome is set to underscore the scale of the implementation challenge. In addition, we expect
the COP28 decision on the new collective quantified goal on finance (NCQG) to further speak to this
implementation challenge, which must be coherently addressed through the adoption of the NCQG at
COP29 in 2024.
I call on developed countries to help restore trust in the system and scale up grant and concessional finance for developing countries. I have continuously asked developed countries to deliver on their promises, including by securing a strong second replenishment of the Green Climate Fund beyond previous efforts.
I welcome and thank all those that have made strong contributions. However, the current level of replenishment is neither ambitious nor adequate to meet the world’s challenge. Developed nations must honor their commitments and provide maximal assurances to channel $100 billion annually towards developing countries through to 2025, as well as show progress on at least doubling adaptation finance by 2025. While we welcome the Open Letter from Germany and Canada that outlines a common path forward for climate finance as contributors strive to fully deliver on the $100 billion by the end of 2023, developed countries must step up to provide more transparency. We look forward to the OECD report for 2021 for further insights. I call on leaders to come to the WCAS with strong pledges for the UNFCCC financial mechanisms and funds, including the Adaptation Fund, which is at serious risk of not meeting its fundraising goals.
I call on developed countries to help restore trust in the system and scale up grant and concessional finance for developing countries. I have continuously asked developed countries to deliver on their promises, including by securing a strong second replenishment of the Green Climate Fund beyond previous efforts.
I welcome and thank all those that have made strong contributions. However, the current level of replenishment is neither ambitious nor adequate to meet the world’s challenge. Developed nations must honor their commitments and provide maximal assurances to channel $100 billion annually towards developing countries through to 2025, as well as show progress on at least doubling adaptation finance by 2025. While we welcome the Open Letter from Germany and Canada that outlines a common path forward for climate finance as contributors strive to fully deliver on the $100 billion by the end of 2023, developed countries must step up to provide more transparency. We look forward to the OECD report for 2021 for further insights. I call on leaders to come to the WCAS with strong pledges for the UNFCCC financial mechanisms and funds, including the Adaptation Fund, which is at serious risk of not meeting its fundraising goals.
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The presidency's action agenda
The WCAS and our two-week thematic programme will mirror the COP28 Presidency priorities in line with the four paradigm shifts. Building on the vision from my last Letter to Parties, the COP28 Presidency has put forward several initiatives informed by our consultations to build ambition and momentum to support the process and create space for a balanced negotiated outcome. These will be spotlighted in the WCAS sessions and countries are invited to contribute:
FAST-TRACKING THE ENERGY TRANSITION
I have made it clear that the phasing down demand for and supply of all fossil fuels is inevitable and
essential. We need to collectively cut 22 gigatons of GHG emissions in the next 7 years to keep 1.5°C
within reach. That means working towards an energy system free of unabated fossil fuels by mid-century,
with action on coal being a priority. We must do this while further ensuring energy security, affordability
and accessibility to support broader development objectives. This transition requires scaling up
investments in clean energy supply and much more efficient use of energy. At the WCAS, I invite leaders
to reflect on the series of high-level dialogues I convened with the IEA, supported by IRENA and UNFCCC
in Goa, Nairobi, New York and Madrid, which focused on laying out 1.5°C-compatible energy transition
pathways, including how to decarbonize today’s energy system while rapidly phasing up zero carbon
alternatives, as part of a just, equitable and orderly energy transition. We will convene countries and
industry leaders at COP28 to respond to the conclusions from these dialogues, as well as the policy
recommendations from the recent Breakthrough Agenda Report, with ambitious commitments.
We invite all countries to join COP28’s pledge endorsing the tripling of global renewables capacity
(reaching 11 TW by 2030) and doubling of the annual average global rate of energy efficiency
improvements between now and 2030 (reaching 4%), and to come to COP with tangible commitments to
realize this goal. Based on feedback from consultations, the pledge details essential national actions to
collectively achieve these global goals (while recognizing different national circumstances). They include
raising national targets, addressing impediments such as limiting subsidies for fossil fuels, speeding up
permitting processes, scaling grid investments, accelerating storage technologies and ensuring access to
finance. We call on leaders to outline country-specific steps at COP28's WCAS. Announcements could
include revised domestic targets and/or revised NDCs with updated renewables or energy efficiency
targets for 2030, backed by specific plans; funding packages; accelerated delivery timelines and/or
technical assistance packages; policies and projects or support to international or bilateral programs,
such as the UAE’s recent $4.5 billion announcement in Nairobi to scale up clean energy in Africa. Achieving
these two targets as well as ending new approvals of unabated coal plants will enable the phase down of
demand for fossil fuels and is critical to keeping 1.5 °C within reach.
We invite all countries to join the following pledges to support accelerated decarbonization at COP28 and at the WCAS: The Heavy Emitting Sectors Green Public Procurement pledge asks countries to commit to a specific level of public green procurement across four levels. The cooling pledge aims to cut down cooling related emissions by countries committing to improving the efficiency of appliances as well as broadening out access to efficient cooling.
The hydrogen declaration asks countries to commit to advance international cooperation on mutual recognition of certification schemes for hydrogen and derivatives, both at political and at technical level.
We urge all companies and in particular those in heavy emitting and energy sectors to accelerate their decarbonization activities, setting strong 2030 targets on the way to net-zero. The energy sector needs to play an important role to support other sectors to decarbonize by dramatically increasing their investments in clean energies, including carbon capture, utilization, and storage, and low-carbon hydrogen. They also have a responsibility to eliminate methane emissions from the production of fossil fuels by 2030, as well as implement best practices by 2030 to more than halving scope 1 and 2 emission intensity, collectively. Energy companies should collaborate and make financing and technology available for the sector to reach these targets. Companies should develop credible net zero transition plans, demonstrating commitment with transparency, aligned capital expenditure plans, and collaborate with policymakers to advance, and not impede, progress.
Some countries need support to drive decarbonization and act on these asks, including the early retirement of unabated coal power plants, in a just and equitable way. We invite the Parties that are able to, to mobilize financial and technical.
We invite all countries to join the following pledges to support accelerated decarbonization at COP28 and at the WCAS: The Heavy Emitting Sectors Green Public Procurement pledge asks countries to commit to a specific level of public green procurement across four levels. The cooling pledge aims to cut down cooling related emissions by countries committing to improving the efficiency of appliances as well as broadening out access to efficient cooling.
The hydrogen declaration asks countries to commit to advance international cooperation on mutual recognition of certification schemes for hydrogen and derivatives, both at political and at technical level.
We urge all companies and in particular those in heavy emitting and energy sectors to accelerate their decarbonization activities, setting strong 2030 targets on the way to net-zero. The energy sector needs to play an important role to support other sectors to decarbonize by dramatically increasing their investments in clean energies, including carbon capture, utilization, and storage, and low-carbon hydrogen. They also have a responsibility to eliminate methane emissions from the production of fossil fuels by 2030, as well as implement best practices by 2030 to more than halving scope 1 and 2 emission intensity, collectively. Energy companies should collaborate and make financing and technology available for the sector to reach these targets. Companies should develop credible net zero transition plans, demonstrating commitment with transparency, aligned capital expenditure plans, and collaborate with policymakers to advance, and not impede, progress.
Some countries need support to drive decarbonization and act on these asks, including the early retirement of unabated coal power plants, in a just and equitable way. We invite the Parties that are able to, to mobilize financial and technical.
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FIXING CLIMATE FINANCE
We know that the current climate finance system is not fit for purpose. We are facing an investment gap in
the USD trillions in developing countries, while those that contributed least to the problem suffer the
greatest impacts and receive the least finance. As I have emphasized, climate finance must be affordable,
available and accessible to developing countries to enable a radical scale up of climate action.
We invite governments to come to COP28 with innovative solutions, policy incentives and instruments
to unleash the potential of the private sector. In addition to scaling public and concessional finance, an
investment-led approach is needed to spur the transformation required to achieve the Paris
commitments. This starts from the real economy, especially to scale the deployment of low-carbon
energy systems. At the Africa Climate Summit, I put forward an ambitious plan to accelerate the clean
energy transition across Africa, backed by a $4.5 billion commitment from the UAE and partners and a call
to African leaders to create the enabling environment for finance to flow. We call on international
partners to mobilize around this, or similar country-owned, needs-driven platforms, and on developing
countries to enable the necessary reforms to unlock investment at scale. Better-functioning voluntary
carbon markets can also channel additional financing to developing countries and support local
economies. We call on all standard setters to align on high integrity standards by COP28 and for investors
to come with high-integrity transactions. We also ask countries to strengthen all sources of climate
finance, including through domestic resource mobilization.
Finally, we need bigger and better international finance institutions (IFIs) who are fit-for-purpose to address both climate and development. I have called on IFIs to scale up concessional finance for adaptation and support for a just transition of energy systems. I congratulate MDBs on meeting their 2025 climate finance targets early and urge them to come to COP28 with revised, ambitious targets. I have also called on IFIs to deploy innovative instruments to catalyze private finance and reduce the cost of capital in developing countries through currency risk hedging and other risk mitigation approaches.
We urge MDBs to work better together as a system through country platform approaches, and work on policy across sectors to create an enabling environment for climate investments at country level. Climate finance must support countries‘ development goals without worsening debt distress, including through mechanisms on debt relief for climate. We saw some progress on the MBD reform agenda at last week's World Bank-IMF annual meetings, including the new mission for the World Bank to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet, as well as the report on nearly $100 billion being delivered in climate finance by MDBs in 2022 and a joint statement by MDB Presidents committing to work together for greater action ahead. Now we must accelerate this progress agenda at last week's World Bank-IMF annual meetings, including the new mission for the World Bank to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet, as well as the report on nearly $100 billion being delivered in climate finance by MDBs in 2022 and a joint statement by MDB Presidents committing to work together for greater action ahead. Now we must accelerate this progress.
I will convene Presidents of MDBs in early November to engage on these issues and discuss key priorities for COP28. We welcome the progress on G20 commitment to re-channel $100 billion of unused Special Drawing Rights (SDRs). We call on Parties to now increase their SDR pledges and speedily translate existing SDR pledges into commitments though IMF and MDBs.
As I laid out before, COP28 should be a milestone to help build the foundation for the finance system of the future. Since then, momentum has grown further on reform of the international architecture, with clear signals from the G20, the Paris Summit, the UNSG’s Climate Ambition Summit, and the African Climate Summit. The Nairobi Declaration in particular demonstrated Africa’s leadership and made clear the need for a Global Charter on climate finance. COP28 will build on this progress, offering an inclusive platform to bring various initiatives into a clear, common vision. With the support of the Independent High Level Expert Group (IHLEG) on Climate Finance, we will seek to provide an overarching structure and set of organizing principles for the international climate finance system moving forward. The IHLEG will present a first draft at Pre-COP in October with further details. We urge all leaders to come to WCAS ready to demonstrate their priorities and actions in line with the above action agenda areas.
Finally, we need bigger and better international finance institutions (IFIs) who are fit-for-purpose to address both climate and development. I have called on IFIs to scale up concessional finance for adaptation and support for a just transition of energy systems. I congratulate MDBs on meeting their 2025 climate finance targets early and urge them to come to COP28 with revised, ambitious targets. I have also called on IFIs to deploy innovative instruments to catalyze private finance and reduce the cost of capital in developing countries through currency risk hedging and other risk mitigation approaches.
We urge MDBs to work better together as a system through country platform approaches, and work on policy across sectors to create an enabling environment for climate investments at country level. Climate finance must support countries‘ development goals without worsening debt distress, including through mechanisms on debt relief for climate. We saw some progress on the MBD reform agenda at last week's World Bank-IMF annual meetings, including the new mission for the World Bank to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet, as well as the report on nearly $100 billion being delivered in climate finance by MDBs in 2022 and a joint statement by MDB Presidents committing to work together for greater action ahead. Now we must accelerate this progress agenda at last week's World Bank-IMF annual meetings, including the new mission for the World Bank to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet, as well as the report on nearly $100 billion being delivered in climate finance by MDBs in 2022 and a joint statement by MDB Presidents committing to work together for greater action ahead. Now we must accelerate this progress.
I will convene Presidents of MDBs in early November to engage on these issues and discuss key priorities for COP28. We welcome the progress on G20 commitment to re-channel $100 billion of unused Special Drawing Rights (SDRs). We call on Parties to now increase their SDR pledges and speedily translate existing SDR pledges into commitments though IMF and MDBs.
As I laid out before, COP28 should be a milestone to help build the foundation for the finance system of the future. Since then, momentum has grown further on reform of the international architecture, with clear signals from the G20, the Paris Summit, the UNSG’s Climate Ambition Summit, and the African Climate Summit. The Nairobi Declaration in particular demonstrated Africa’s leadership and made clear the need for a Global Charter on climate finance. COP28 will build on this progress, offering an inclusive platform to bring various initiatives into a clear, common vision. With the support of the Independent High Level Expert Group (IHLEG) on Climate Finance, we will seek to provide an overarching structure and set of organizing principles for the international climate finance system moving forward. The IHLEG will present a first draft at Pre-COP in October with further details. We urge all leaders to come to WCAS ready to demonstrate their priorities and actions in line with the above action agenda areas.
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PUTTING NATURE, PEOPLE, LIVES AND LIVELIHOODS AT THE HEART OF CLIMATE ACTION
Lives and livelihoods are changing in the face of climate change. In my consultations, many communities
have made it clear that they expect to see both political visibility and new finance for resilience,
adaptation, and prevention of loss and damage at COP28, especially through real-world applications in
underpinning sectors like nature, food, water, and health. Our presidency has therefore designed COP28’s
agenda to elevate these themes and put them at the core of leaders’ engagements in the UAE.
On food, the COP28 Presidency has put forward the leader-level Emirates Declaration on Sustainable
Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action for collective action to achieve the Paris
Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Informed by our consultations with Parties
and regional groupings, a key element of the declaration is a voluntary commitment to incorporate food
systems and agriculture into NDCs and NAPs by 2025, as appropriate in respective national contexts. We
call on all Parties to sign the declaration and come to COP28 prepared with tangible commitments to
underpin the declaration with real action. The WCAS will showcase a group of “first-mover” countries that
will put forward concrete policy and investment plans to implement the declaration.
On health, we invite Parties to endorse the COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health, which has been consulted on widely and drafted in collaboration with the World Health Organization. Being launched at the World Health Summit in Berlin on 17 October, the declaration asks countries to commit to strengthening the development and implementation of climate and health policies, improve finance for climate-health, and incorporate health considerations in relevant climate policies. We will be seeking endorsement from all Parties ahead of COP28.
On nature, the WCAS will focus on integrating climate, nature, and biodiversity action to protect our critical ecosystems and invest in and platform the leadership of the indigenous peoples who steward them, working to deliver synergies across the Paris Agreement and the landmark Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). Alongside our UN Climate Change High-Level Champion, H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, we are working with forest-rich countries and their partners to halt and reverse deforestation by 2030, in line with the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration. We invite nature-rich countries to come to COP28 with clear national investment plans in support of both Paris and KMGBF, and for financing partners to come with tangible commitments to those plans. We also call on countries to endorse the Mangrove Breakthrough and invite them to join the Mangrove Alliance for Climate to facilitate implementation. On ocean action, we invite Parties to come forward with national plans on how they are achieving a 100% sustainable ocean economy.
COP28 will also focus on tailored investment in highly vulnerable communities. We call on governments, finance providers and implementing partners to sign COP28’s Climate, Relief, Recovery, and Peace Pact to address the persistent gap in climate finance in such contexts, as well as to make contributions to Early Warnings for All, with its target of global coverage by 2027, and endorse the Risk Informed Early Action Partnership (REAP)’s call to shift to earlier and anticipatory action.
On health, we invite Parties to endorse the COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health, which has been consulted on widely and drafted in collaboration with the World Health Organization. Being launched at the World Health Summit in Berlin on 17 October, the declaration asks countries to commit to strengthening the development and implementation of climate and health policies, improve finance for climate-health, and incorporate health considerations in relevant climate policies. We will be seeking endorsement from all Parties ahead of COP28.
On nature, the WCAS will focus on integrating climate, nature, and biodiversity action to protect our critical ecosystems and invest in and platform the leadership of the indigenous peoples who steward them, working to deliver synergies across the Paris Agreement and the landmark Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF). Alongside our UN Climate Change High-Level Champion, H.E. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, we are working with forest-rich countries and their partners to halt and reverse deforestation by 2030, in line with the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration. We invite nature-rich countries to come to COP28 with clear national investment plans in support of both Paris and KMGBF, and for financing partners to come with tangible commitments to those plans. We also call on countries to endorse the Mangrove Breakthrough and invite them to join the Mangrove Alliance for Climate to facilitate implementation. On ocean action, we invite Parties to come forward with national plans on how they are achieving a 100% sustainable ocean economy.
COP28 will also focus on tailored investment in highly vulnerable communities. We call on governments, finance providers and implementing partners to sign COP28’s Climate, Relief, Recovery, and Peace Pact to address the persistent gap in climate finance in such contexts, as well as to make contributions to Early Warnings for All, with its target of global coverage by 2027, and endorse the Risk Informed Early Action Partnership (REAP)’s call to shift to earlier and anticipatory action.
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MOBILIZING FOR AN INCLUSIVE COP
Inclusion is the foundation of the COP28 Presidency and must continue to be our collective guiding star.
The COP28 Presidency set out an early and clear aspiration to elevate, profile and support the leadership,
decision-making, and resourcing of women, Indigenous Peoples, youth, people of determination,
subnational actors, and faith-based organizations, among others.
The WCAS will profile and elevate their
voice set out an early and clear aspiration to elevate, profile and support the leadership, decision-making,
and resourcing of women, Indigenous Peoples, youth, people of determination, subnational actors, and
faith-based organizations, among others.
The expertise, insight and knowledge that observers, NGOs and wider civil society have shared with me
throughout my listening tour have been invaluable in shaping our priorities. Their challenge and
commitment have and continue to play a vital role in tackling our shared climate and nature challenges
inside and outside the negotiations room. I therefore urge leaders to hear their voices, seek their insight
and welcome them into discussions at COP28.
We also continue to call on leaders to engage with young people and work with us to ensure their voices are heard. This includes bringing youth as part of official delegations, and holding consultations with young people as leaders prepare their positions ahead of COP28. HE Shamma Al Mazrui, the COP28 Youth Climate Champion, has embedded youth in our planning and engagements across this full calendar year. During the WCAS, she will be setting out her priorities, including defining a sustainable, holistic model for meaningful youth engagement for all future COPs, and a call for Parties to support the institutionalization of the Youth Climate Champion role. We urge you to support this outcome.
Considering the key role of women and girls in climate solutions, COP28 will emphasize a gender-just transition, and one that builds upon better quality, gender-disaggregated data and scales up genderresponsive finance for women-led climate action.
COP28 will also work in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples to ensure their contributions in a just transition are continually emphasized, and to support their call for better access to finance to recognize their invaluable stewardship of nature and planetary health.
COP28 will also recognize the critical role of local leaders in the COP process. This is why COP28 and Bloomberg Philanthropies are partnering to convene a historic number of mayors, governors, NGOs, businesses, and other local leaders at the COP28 Local Climate Action Summit alongside Parties to respond to the Global Stocktake. In conjunction with the Summit, the Presidency calls on leaders to endorse the Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships (CHAMP), a new commitment for national and subnational actors to partner in the planning, financing and implementation of climate strategies.
Coordinated with the Local Climate Action Summit, we will also host the Business and Philanthropy Climate Forum, led by our Special Representative, Badr H Jafar, to showcase additional commitments and real-world solutions that are being led and financed by non-party stakeholders, especially in collaboration with government. The COP28 Presidency will have a focus on accountability and transparency of the private sector, working in collaboration with the UNFCCC and the High-Level Champions to further bring credibility to Net Zero commitments and progress.
We also continue to call on leaders to engage with young people and work with us to ensure their voices are heard. This includes bringing youth as part of official delegations, and holding consultations with young people as leaders prepare their positions ahead of COP28. HE Shamma Al Mazrui, the COP28 Youth Climate Champion, has embedded youth in our planning and engagements across this full calendar year. During the WCAS, she will be setting out her priorities, including defining a sustainable, holistic model for meaningful youth engagement for all future COPs, and a call for Parties to support the institutionalization of the Youth Climate Champion role. We urge you to support this outcome.
Considering the key role of women and girls in climate solutions, COP28 will emphasize a gender-just transition, and one that builds upon better quality, gender-disaggregated data and scales up genderresponsive finance for women-led climate action.
COP28 will also work in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples to ensure their contributions in a just transition are continually emphasized, and to support their call for better access to finance to recognize their invaluable stewardship of nature and planetary health.
COP28 will also recognize the critical role of local leaders in the COP process. This is why COP28 and Bloomberg Philanthropies are partnering to convene a historic number of mayors, governors, NGOs, businesses, and other local leaders at the COP28 Local Climate Action Summit alongside Parties to respond to the Global Stocktake. In conjunction with the Summit, the Presidency calls on leaders to endorse the Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships (CHAMP), a new commitment for national and subnational actors to partner in the planning, financing and implementation of climate strategies.
Coordinated with the Local Climate Action Summit, we will also host the Business and Philanthropy Climate Forum, led by our Special Representative, Badr H Jafar, to showcase additional commitments and real-world solutions that are being led and financed by non-party stakeholders, especially in collaboration with government. The COP28 Presidency will have a focus on accountability and transparency of the private sector, working in collaboration with the UNFCCC and the High-Level Champions to further bring credibility to Net Zero commitments and progress.
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LOOKING AHEAD
LOOKING AHEAD
We will be sharing further logistical information on the WCAS, including the Gala Dinner and UAE National
Day through diplomatic channels. Texts for the aforementioned COP28 Action Agenda declarations and
pledges will also be circulated by October 20th.
I believe that our ambitious action agenda can bring hope, sharpen focus, and accelerate change. I call on all leaders to come to COP28 with optimism and with the will to deliver real results. Together, let us turn pledges into projects and let us turn ambition into action.
Let us unite, act and deliver.
I believe that our ambitious action agenda can bring hope, sharpen focus, and accelerate change. I call on all leaders to come to COP28 with optimism and with the will to deliver real results. Together, let us turn pledges into projects and let us turn ambition into action.
Let us unite, act and deliver.
