UN Assembly Discusses COP30 Priorities, Iraq Demands Climate Justice

The United Nations General Assembly held an open discussion session chaired by its President, Mr. Philemon Yang, to review the priorities and preparations for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30). The session was attended by Mr. Andrés Correia, the President-designate of COP30, who outlined the conference’s logistical plans and key objectives.

Dr. Abbas Kadhim Obaid, Iraq’s Permanent Representative to the UN and Chair of the Group of 77 and China, delivered a statement on behalf of the group. He reaffirmed the G77 and China’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and stressed the principles of climate justice and common but differentiated responsibilities.

Dr. Obaid highlighted the severe climate challenges facing developing countries, where extreme weather threatens economies and development gains. He noted that COP29’s outcomes did not meet expectations, particularly in climate finance and a just transition to low-carbon development.

He called for COP30 to prioritise climate financing, aligning with the “Baku-Belem” roadmap, and urged raising climate finance to $1.3 trillion. He also stressed the need to accelerate climate action, especially with the implementation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs 3.0).

The Iraqi representative urged that COP30 must focus on climate adaptation, implementing the Baku roadmap and finalising the global goal for adaptation. He also called for a review of adaptation financing before 2026 and emphasised a fair transition that considers the economic capacities of developing nations.

The Group of 77 and China’s statement received strong support from many UN Member States, reaffirming the need for stronger climate financing, adaptation strategies, and a just transition at COP30.

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs