The 28th Conference of Parties (COP) on Climate Change has commenced officially in Dubai, with COP28 President Dr. Sultan Al-Jaber handed the mantle by COP27 President Sameh Shoukry. 

In his maiden speech, Al-Jaber, who will lead the 2023 climate change conversation, urged stakeholders to take bold decisions on Global Stocktake. 

He advocated for bridging of the global adaptation finance gap, and urged parties to deliver on the promise of a fully operational Loss and Damage Fund. 

“Let’s put nature, lives, and livelihoods at the core of our national plans. Let’s finally face the issues that are critical to adaptation, like water, food, agriculture, and health,” he said, adding that COP28 will be the first to host a climate health ministerial.

Al Jaber said his Presidency is committed to unlocking finance to ensure that the Global South does not have to choose between development and climate action. 

In a response to allegations of being fossil fuel proactive, Al Jaber said that he has made strides by engaging fossil fuel companies to be climate change champions. 

He further noted the importance of decarbonizing the existing energy system. 

“Let history reflect the fact that this is the Presidency that made a bold choice to proactively engage with oil and gas companies."

"Many of these companies are committing to zeroing out methane emissions by 2030 for the first time. And many national oil companies have adopted net zero 2050 targets for the first time,” he added.

Al Jaber also called for consensus around a framework for the future energy system.

I know there are strong views about the idea of including language on fossil fuels and renewables in the negotiated text. We have the power to do something unprecedented. I ask you to work together,” he urged delegates.

He also emphasized on flexibility by climate stakeholders so as to find common ground to come forward with solutions, and achieve a consensus so as not to lose sight of 1.5 commitments.

The global conference has convened around 70,000 participants, including heads of state, government officials, international industry leaders, private sector representatives, academics, experts, youth, and non-state actors.

COP28 officially runs from 30 November to 12 December.