COP28 BANGLADESH Closing Plenary Statement From The Floor 13th December 2023

Summary

In a powerful address, the speaker emphasizes the importance of multilateralism and the critical need for consensus within the UN process, particularly regarding climate action. Reflecting on the progress made during the recent COP discussions, the speaker highlights the significance of the 1.5°C goal as a scientific benchmark that shapes global discourse on mitigation, adaptation, and financing. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, they stress the necessity of trust, empathy, and solidarity among nations. The speaker expresses optimism about the future of climate negotiations and the potential for this COP to be a transformative step toward meaningful action and cooperation.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The representative from Bangladesh congratulated the leadership for their efforts in the COP process.
• 🤝 Emphasized the importance of multilateralism and the need for a collective approach in climate negotiations.
• 📜 Noted the longstanding issue of lacking approved terms of reference for the COP process over the past 30 years.
• 🌍 Stressed that the 1.5°C target is not a political statement but a scientific necessity crucial for global climate action.
• ☁️ Acknowledged disappointment in initial drafts of proposals but recognized improvements made through collaboration.
• 🔍 Highlighted the need for further clarification and discussion on the text of the Global Stocktake (GST).
• 💪 Adaptation is deemed a life-and-death issue for many countries, emphasizing the urgency of addressing it effectively.
• 💰 Called for action-oriented finance delivery rather than mere reporting on previous efforts.
• 🏆 Compared the summit to the Asia Cup, showcasing Asia's potential for delivering impactful climate solutions.
• 🌟 Expressed optimism that this COP could be a transformative moment in future climate negotiations.

Q & A

What was the initial conversation between Bangladesh and the President about?

The conversation highlighted that the upcoming COP (Conference of the Parties) was a litmus test for multilateralism and flagged concerns about the lack of an approved terms of reference for the COP process.

How long has it been since there was an agreement on the COP process?

It has been over 30 years since there has been an agreement on the terms of reference for the COP process.

What significant change occurred during this COP compared to past ones?

Unlike in the past, delegates were more willing to step out of their comfort zones to focus on the bigger picture, rather than hiding behind the term 'consensus' to protect national positions.

What is the significance of the 1.5°C goal mentioned in the speech?

The 1.5°C goal is not merely a political request; it represents the upper limit identified by science that countries can aim for to mitigate climate change impacts.

What does the speaker believe about the relationship between temperature increase and resource needs for adaptation?

The speaker believes that keeping the temperature increase within 1.5°C will lessen the resources needed for adaptation and reduce the burden of loss and damage.

What is the speaker's perspective on adaptation financing?

The speaker emphasizes that adaptation is a matter of life and death for many countries, and that financing should focus on delivering necessary resources rather than just reporting past actions.

How does the speaker view the outcomes of COP 28?

The speaker sees COP 28 as a starting point rather than a conclusion, indicating that all parties have begun together on a path to significant change.

What was the context of the UAE's role in this COP?

The UAE was viewed as an example of how Asia can deliver results, and the speaker expressed hope that this COP would be a turning point for future conferences.

What qualities does the speaker believe are necessary for future COPs?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of trust, empathy, and solidarity among nations to ensure that future COPs are successful and impactful.

How does the speaker envision the legacy of this COP in the future?

The speaker hopes that in five or ten years, this COP will be seen as a game-changing moment in delivering on climate commitments and fostering international cooperation.