United States: Mr. Majid Al Suwaidi, Director-General and Special Representative of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), has called on Member States to take ambitious action to deal with the consequences of rising sea levels on peace and security and other climate impacts at an open debate of the United Nations Security Council.
The open debate, titled “Sea-level rise: implications for international peace and security,” was chaired by Malta’s Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade, Dr. Ian Borg, and included briefings by UN Secretary-General Mr. António Guterres and President of the 77th Session of the UN General Assembly, Mr. Csaba Körösi.
Ambassador Al Suwaidi called for catalysing greater and higher-quality climate finance for fragile and vulnerable communities, and he underscored the UAE’s support for the Secretary-General’s Early Warning for All initiative.
“The United Arab Emirates recognises the urgent need for a coordinated response across the multilateral system. We cannot neglect any element of the climate crisis, including its clear implications for international peace and security. Our obligation is to reverse the current trajectories with inclusive, effective, and responsive climate action,” Mr. Al Suwaidi remarked.
The Ambassador further briefed diplomatic representatives from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to ensure close collaboration on shared priorities between the UAE and SIDS in the run-up to COP28.
In accordance with the UAE’s commitment to a successful partnership with the UN for COP28, Mr. Al Suwaidi met with Mr. Selwin Hart, Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on Climate Action, and Assistant UN Secretary-General of the Climate Action Team.