In a historic moment at the Closing Plenary of COP28, President Dr Sultan Al Jaber of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) delivered remarks highlighting the unprecedented achievements and global consensus reached during the two-week conference.
Addressing fellow leaders, colleagues, and friends, Dr Al Jaber expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts that led to a comprehensive response to the Global Stocktake and other critical mandates. He emphasised the importance of a balanced and science-led action plan, known as the “UAE Consensus,” aimed at keeping the 1.5-degree Celsius target within reach.
“The world needed to find a new way, and we have found that path,” said President Al Jaber, noting the significance of tackling emissions, bridging adaptation gaps, reimagining global finance, and addressing loss and damage. The plan, he described, is built on common ground, inclusivity, and collaboration, constituting an enhanced and historic package to accelerate global climate action.
President Al Jaber commended the united efforts of participants, including private and public sectors, civil society, faith leaders, youth, and indigenous peoples, who came together from the outset of COP28. He highlighted several groundbreaking achievements, such as the operationalisation of loss and damage, the mobilisation of over $85 billion in new financial commitments, and the launch of ALTÉRRA, the world’s largest catalytic private investor focused entirely on climate change solutions.
“We promised a different kind of COP, and we delivered. Everyone united, acted, and delivered,” President Al Jaber declared. He reflected on the conference’s unique moments, including the world’s first global goal to triple renewables and double energy efficiency, declarations on agriculture, food, and health, and significant commitments from oil and gas companies on methane and emissions.
The President credited the Change-Makers Majlis as a turning point in negotiations, where participants reconnected with a spirit of collaboration and engaged in heartfelt discussions. He emphasised the need for caution, noting that the success of the agreement relies on its implementation. “An agreement is only as good as its implementation. We must take the steps necessary to turn this agreement into tangible action,” he warned.
President Al Jaber acknowledged the role of inclusivity as the beating heart of the conference, expressing gratitude to indigenous peoples, global youth, and the Global South for their contributions. He described COP28 as a paradigm shift that has the potential to redefine global economies, reframe conversations around climate finance, and integrate the real economy into climate action.
Expressing personal gratitude to all participants, President Al Jaber thanked countries, delegates, and his team for their unwavering commitment. He reserved special appreciation for His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, for his constant support and guidance.
In conclusion, President Al Jaber reiterated the importance of unity and solidarity in implementing the UAE Consensus, setting the world on a new path towards a sustainable future. He pledged to continue the journey from Dubai to Baku and Belem, securing the future of the planet for generations to come.
