The Governments of Vanuatu and Tuvalu will host the ‘2nd Pacific Ministerial Dialogue on Pathways for the Global Just Transition away from Fossil Fuels’ in Port Vila this week, from 15- 17 March 2023.
It will be attended by delegations from Fiji, Niue, the Solomon Islands, the Marshall Islands, Tonga and representatives from regional organisations including Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Henry Puna and the Pacific Community (SPC).
This important Dialogue is being convened at a time when Vanuatu is recovering from the impacts of twin Category 4 cyclones, highlighting firstly the resilience of people whose countries are in a constant state of recovery, and the urgent need for international cooperation in phasing out the primary cause of climate impacts: oil, gas, and coal.
The Dialogue will bring together environment, energy, finance and climate change Ministers from across the Pacific region to build towards regional collective support and solidarity around a managed phase-out of fossil fuels and other key initiatives and proposals linked to a just transition including the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance and the International Court of Justice Climate Initiative.
The Dialogue will also provide an opportunity for Ministers to discuss the needs at the national, regional and international level for a managed phase-out of fossil fuels, what this could look like for Pacific Island economies, and how Pacific nations can champion the call for a rapid, just fossil fuel phase-out and global just transition through new international governance mechanisms at key subregional, regional and international moments in 2023.
Vanuatu Climate Change Minister Ralph Regenvanu said: “Rapidly phasing out fossil fuels and transitioning to renewable energy is not just a necessity, it is our moral obligation to safeguard the future of Pacific island countries and the world. We need a concerted and ambitious effort from governments, businesses, and individuals globally to build renewable energy systems that prioritise community needs and avoid replicating the harms of fossil fuel systems. We must support those who are most vulnerable to the transition, ensuring a just and equitable future for all.
“As the Pacific continues to face the devastating impacts of climate change, it is more important than ever to take action and champion the call for a global just transition and a fossil fuel phase-out. The Government of Vanuatu is committed to working with Pacific neighbours and partners to tackle the pressing issue of climate change globally and to pave the way for a sustainable and resilient future for our people.”
Vanuatu Prime Minister Ishmael Kalsakau will address delegates on Wednesday evening at a welcome reception.
SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST/PACNEWS
