The Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jassem Mohamed Albudaiwi, has emphasized the GCC countries’ commitment to collaborating with the global community to address the consequences of climate change. He highlighted the significance of the United Arab Emirates hosting the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) as a pivotal event in this endeavor.
Albudaiwi made these remarks during his participation in the ministerial meeting of GCC ministers responsible for climate affairs, which took place on the sidelines of the MENA Climate Week 2023 held in Riyadh. He expressed his gratitude to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz for their efforts in advancing the GCC’s collective initiatives.
Albudaiwi referred to the closing statement issued during the 43rd session of the GCC Supreme Council, which emphasized the adoption of key principles of energy transitions, including energy security, economic development, and addressing climate change. He highlighted the achievements and efforts of GCC member states in implementing the circular carbon economy’s four pillars, which involve reducing emissions and their reusing, recycling, and removal.
The Secretary General stressed the importance of collaborative efforts among GCC countries to maximize the effectiveness of their initiatives in energy transitions and climate change. The meeting covered various climate-related topics, including mitigation, adaptation, finance, investment, and strategies for advancing climate action while ensuring the region’s security, development, and economic well-being. It also facilitated the exchange of ideas and experiences on these critical climate issues.
