Dr. Rania Al Mashat, Egyptian Minister of International Cooperation, has underscored the profound importance of the upcoming 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28), slated to be hosted by the UAE from November 30 to December 12, 2023, at Expo City Dubai. Al Mashat affirmed that this gathering will serve as a vital global platform for addressing the critical issue of climate change and its detrimental impacts on nations and their populations.
In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), Minister Al Mashat highlighted the UAE’s hosting of COP28, following Egypt’s hosting of the previous COP27, as a demonstrative move in support of international climate action efforts, particularly in the Arab region and the broader Middle East and North Africa region. She emphasized that the UAE’s hosting of this conference would effectively direct international attention to climate action endeavors in the region.
Minister Al Mashat pointed to pertinent international reports that designate the Middle East and North Africa region as particularly vulnerable to the risks posed by climate change. A staggering 60% of the region’s populace resides in areas heavily impacted by water stress, while an estimated 20 million individuals face displacement due to climate change-related challenges.
The COP28 agenda is set to encompass presentations showcasing the significant outcomes achieved through the National Platform for Green Projects (Novi) and the Sharm El Sheikh Guidebook for Just Financing over the course of a year. Minister Al Mashat also participated in a series of preparatory events for COP28 hosted by the UAE, aimed at charting a roadmap to advance climate action throughout the region.
Minister Al Mashat acknowledged that COP27 had ushered in pivotal results pertaining to climate action, including the COP27 Loss and Damage Fund. She anticipates that COP28 will serve to consolidate international support for developing countries and emerging economies in their transition toward sustainable, eco-friendly pathways.
