India Global Forum 2023: Bhupender Yadav Concludes Climate for Business Forum in Dubai

Dubai, United Arab Emirates - The India Global Forum Middle East and Africa 2023 reached its grand finale in Dubai, with Bhupender Yadav, India’s Environment Minister, closing the proceedings of the Climate for Business (ClimB) Forum. As the international community gears up for COP28 in the UAE, Minister Yadav emphasized the crucial aspect of climate justice during the concluding session.

Minister Yadav highlighted the disparity in carbon emissions, pointing out that 17% of the developed world contributes 60% per capita emissions, while the 54 African countries only emit 4%. Advocating for dignified lives for all, he stressed the importance of recognizing every country's right to development.

Drawing attention to unfulfilled funding promises by developed nations, Yadav questioned the trustworthiness of commitments and urged COP28 to focus on the Global Stocktake's outcome and the adoption of the Global Goal on Adaptation. He further called for increased funds for global adaptation practices.

The strategically timed ClimB Forum, on the eve of COP28, delved into climate leadership, clean energy, policy strategies, and green financing, emphasizing sustainable economic growth. Discussions centered around the pivotal role of technology and innovation in addressing climate change's far-reaching impacts.

Earlier in the day, Commonwealth Secretary-General Rt Hon Patricia Scotland emphasized the existential threat posed by climate change to vulnerable nations. Urging action to prevent the loss of lives and entire countries, Scotland shared personal experiences, stating, “1.5 to stay alive” is not just a slogan but a lived reality for many nations.

Addressing the urgency needed in responding to climate change, Scotland compared it to the response to the Covid pandemic. She emphasized the need for human genius to navigate the challenges, pointing out that human ingenuity got us into this situation and will be key to finding solutions.

Throughout the day, discussions highlighted challenges related to climate financing and discrimination faced by developing countries. Kate Hampton, CEO of The Children's Investment Fund Foundation, emphasized the need to reduce the cost of capital for developing nations to facilitate investments in climate mitigation and resilience.

The India Global Forum Middle East and Africa 2023 brought together business leaders, policymakers, and thought leaders to explore collaboration opportunities between India, UAE, and Africa. The program covered topics such as trade, investment, innovation, technology, and sustainability through networking opportunities, panel discussions, and keynote speeches.

For more information and to watch the sessions, click here. Photos can be accessed here.

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