Fiji’s Ambassador to Indonesia and Chief Negotiator at COP28, Amena Yauvoli, marked a historic achievement as the Loss and Damage fund was formally adopted during the COP28 negotiations in Dubai.
The decision, confirmed at the ongoing COP28 meeting, was accompanied by generous pledges from key contributors, elevating the fund to a total of US$310.5 million. Leading the support were the UAE and Germany, each pledging US$100 million, with additional commitments from various nations.
Ambassador Yauvoli’s leadership and the collaborative efforts of the Fijian team played a crucial role in achieving this milestone, addressing the challenges posed by climate change, particularly for vulnerable regions.
“This success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. We have fought tirelessly for the creation of this fund, and now, with substantial pledges received, our focus shifts to ensuring these funds are effectively utilised for our climate goals,” said Ambassador Yauvoli, expressing gratitude.
“The Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) hail this achievement as a collective success, emphasisng the importance of solidarity among smaller nations. Fiji along with allied Small Island States and the G77 in China, celebrate this remarkable outcome,” said the Ambassador.
Looking ahead, attention turns to the strategic disbursement of funds to address pressing climate challenges, such as coastal village adaptation and saltwater intrusion affecting food security. Plans are underway to secure appropriate representation in the Board memberships, allowing effective influence over fund disbursement decisions.
“We are optimistic about the potential growth of pledges to US$500 million by the end of the week,” noted Ambassador Yauvoli, as the COP President conveyed.
“The PSIDS is actively engaged in discussions surrounding the constitution of the Board memberships, ensuring comprehensive representation for effective decision-making,” he further adds.
In a separate development at the COP28 meeting, Fiji’s lead negotiator, Ambassador Amena Yauvoli, played a central role as he co-chaired the meeting on the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG).
Appointed by the COP28 President Designate, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Ambassador Yauvoli’s leadership in chairing this pivotal meeting underscores his deep expertise in the intricate matters surrounding the New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance.
This goal holds immense significance as nations strive to enhance their commitments to climate finance in the pursuit of a sustainable and resilient future.
Additionally, Ambassador Yauvoli was requested by the COP28 President Designate to co-facilitate the negotiating group during the upcoming COP28/CMP18/CMA5 sessions, highlighting his outstanding experience in facilitating complex negotiations.
The COP28 President Designate expressed confidence in Ambassador Yauvoli, stating that he counts on his expertise, commitment, and dedication to steer the negotiations of this sub-item towards a successful outcome.
As Fiji continues to play a pivotal role in shaping climate negotiations, Ambassador Amena Yauvoli’s leadership positions reinforce the nation’s commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue and consensus-building in the fight against climate change.
SOURCE: FIJI GOVT/PACNEWS
