UAE's COP28 Leader Calls for Unity in Addressing Climate Crisis

 

The United Arab Emirates' pick to lead the upcoming COP28 climate talks in Dubai, Sultan al-Jaber, has faced criticism from climate activists who have expressed concern about his background as the CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. In response, al-Jaber addressed these concerns head-on during a speech at the World Government Summit in Dubai on Tuesday, calling for unity in the fight against climate change.

Al-Jaber described the upcoming United Nations negotiations as an “unprecedented opportunity to engage the energy industry in a technological revolution,” and urged everyone to work together to make significant progress towards reducing carbon emissions. He emphasized the need for a “major course correction” to address the urgent threat of climate change, while also stressing the importance of policies that are “pro-growth and pro-climate at the same time.”

Despite his background in the oil industry, al-Jaber has been a longtime climate envoy and has led the UAE's push for renewable energy investments. His selection as the leader of the COP28 climate talks is seen as a bridge between oil companies and climate activists, with the hope that he can help to create meaningful change in the industry.

It is clear that the fight against climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing the world today. The UAE's selection of al-Jaber as the leader of the COP28 climate talks is a reminder of the need for all stakeholders to come together in a united effort to combat this global threat.

As al-Jaber stated in his speech, “We need to fight climate change, not each other.” Only by working together and putting aside our differences can we hope to make significant progress towards a more sustainable future. With the world watching, it is up to all of us to rise to this challenge and create a better future for generations to come.