UN climate chief calls on countries to remove 'unnecessary tactical blockages'
UN Climate Chief Simon Stiell on Monday (11 December) called on countries gathered at COP28 to remove "unnecessary tactical blockages", on the eve of the scheduled end of the conference, which is focused on the future of fossil fuels.
"We are now here to discuss two issues," he said in Dubai, citing the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and "ways" to support the transition of less developed countries, while a new proposal for a final text is expected. In other words, a compromise has yet to be found on the exit or, at the very least, the reduction of fossil fuels, while ensuring financing for the poorest countries. The two issues are inseparable, he said.
"The highest levels of ambition are possible for both" subjects, Stiell said. "I urge negotiators to reject incrementalism. Every step backwards from the highest ambition will cost millions of lives," he said, stressing his opposition to a policy of small steps.
"We don't have a minute to lose," he also urged, as COP28 is theoretically due to end on Tuesday but key issues still need to be resolved. The Emirati president of COP28, Sultan Al Jaber, head of the national oil company, promised a "historic" agreement as early as December 12, the anniversary of the Paris agreement.
Read also"Exit or reduce"? At COP28, a battle of words to break the taboo on fossil fuels
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