UAE to host COP28 in 2023

The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) has officially announced that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) in 2023. The UNFCCC confirmation followed unanimous endorsement by the Asia Pacific Group of nations during COP26, where nearly 200 countries have gathered to take action to cap global greenhouse gas emissions and unite against climate change. In response, H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, minister of foreign affairs and international cooperation for the UAE, said: “We are pleased and honoured by the UNFCCC decision to select the UAE to host the COP28 in 2023 and commit ourselves as a nation to supporting the entire international community in accelerating our combined efforts to overcome the very real threat of climate change. “We look forward to welcoming the world at COP28. The voice of every nation and stakeholder will be heard, ensuring that, together, we not only help mitigate the effects of global warming, but also unlock new opportunities to realise greater prosperity and a better life for future generations.” Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, minister of industry and advanced technology and special envoy for climate change for the UAE, added: “Everyone will have a seat at the table. Developed countries alongside developing nation, the public alongside the private sector, scientists alongside civil society and also. importantly the voices of youth. It is together that we will succeed.” Dr Al Jaber also congratulated the Arab Republic of Egypt for being announced as host of the COP27, highlighting that the UAE will cooperate with partners everywhere to identify lessons learned to achieve effective results. At COP26, the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM for Climate) – a new initiative led by the UAE and United States (US) with the support of over 30 governments – was officially launched. AIM for Climate announced a US$4bn increase in investment to accelerate innovation for climate-smart agriculture and food systems over the next five years. The UAE has pledged $1bn of increased investment as part of this initiative, which aims to increase and accelerate agricultural and food systems innovation in support of climate action. AIM for Climate is focused on leveraging high-potential economic returns and job creation from innovation investment in a sector that employs over 2bn people and feeds the world’s growing population.