Kagame joins World leaders at COP28 opening ceremony of in Dubai

President Paul Kagame has participated in the opening ceremony of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) alongside other global leaders. The event held in Dubai, commenced on November 30 and is slated to conclude on December 12, 2023.

Rwanda’s Presidency has disclosed that Kagame joined leaders including Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nayhan, President of the United Arab States; Antonio Guterres, the Secretary General of the United Nations, and other dignitaries.

Approximately 200 countries were represented at COP28, with attendees ranging from business and financial leaders to civil society representatives.

The primary objective was to collaboratively explore strategies for adopting climate-friendly energy solutions in the future.

Addressing the gathering, UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue of extreme heat, which has significant economic implications, impacting global price fluctuations and increasing the cost of living.

Guterres highlighted the potential benefits of renewable energy, describing it as a valuable asset for both the well-being of the planet’s inhabitants and the global economy.

A noteworthy development on the first day of COP28 was the official launch of a fund dedicated to assisting developing nations most severely affected by climate change. This initiative, spearheaded by COP28 President and the United Arab Emirates Minister of Industry and Technology, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, gained approval at the preceding COP27 conference in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.

Dr. Sultan Al Jaber expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort that transformed the fund from a commitment made in Sharm El Sheikh to a tangible reality in Dubai within a year. He praised the collective dedication of the involved teams, underscoring the accomplishment as evidence that the world can unite to achieve significant goals.

PM