High-Level Event at UNGA Advances Climate Action for Vulnerable Nations Amidst Conflict and Crisis

emirates7 - During the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the Presidencies of COP28 and COP29 hosted a high-level event focused on climate action and finance in vulnerable countries experiencing conflict and humanitarian crises. Over 30 parties participated to preview plans for the upcoming Peace, Relief, and Recovery Day at COP29, scheduled for November 15 in Baku, building on the inaugural day held at COP28 in December at Expo City Dubai.

The discussions addressed the need for policies, financial support, and practical solutions to help highly climate-vulnerable nations access resources for adaptation and resilience. These countries typically receive the lowest levels of climate finance globally, despite the critical benefits such investments can offer in food, water, and energy security.

“Investing in the most vulnerable countries is an urgent priority that presents high-impact opportunities for development and humanitarian relief,” stated Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability of the UAE. He emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on underserved communities to prevent loss and damage.

Ambassador Elshad Iskandarov, Senior Advisor to the COP29 Presidency, expressed gratitude for the UAE's collaboration in advancing the COP28 CRRP Declaration, which underscores the operationalization of support for vulnerable nations at COP29. He noted a shared objective of fostering synergy among various climate and peace initiatives to enhance international cooperation and climate finance.

In recent years, there has been increased political commitment to climate action in conflict-affected countries, with 93 countries and 43 organizations signing the COP28 UAE Declaration on Relief, Recovery, and Peace. Azerbaijan has actively championed this agenda during its presidency, emphasizing the need for action on issues like water scarcity and climate-related migration.

At the New York event, major finance providers, including Chad, Germany, Timor-Leste, Uganda, and the United Kingdom, discussed climate initiatives tailored for vulnerable settings. The Green Climate Fund outlined plans for customized programs for fragile countries, building on a recent deal with Somalia. The Islamic Development Bank reiterated its pledge to provide over $1 billion in climate finance for fragile nations over the next three years, while OCHA highlighted the importance of anticipatory action for climate threats.

Azerbaijan also shared its plans for the Peace, Relief, and Recovery Day and its ministerial meeting on November 15 at COP29, aiming to evaluate the implementation of the agenda since COP28 and to foster new commitments.