World leaders take centerstage in high-level COP28 event

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Participating world leaders and delegates pose for a family photo during the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (Handout via Reuters)
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The COP28 conference notched an early victory on Thursday with the launch of a long-awaited fund to address growing loss and damage from natural disasters. (AFP)
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Updated 02 December 2023
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World leaders take centerstage in high-level COP28 event

  • UAE ruler announces the establishment of a $30 billion fund for global climate solutions

DUBAI: More than 130 world leaders take centerstage as they address the United Nations climate conference in Dubai over the next two days to deliver national statements.

The high-level segment of COP28 would hear from heads of states and governments, including UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Jordan’s King Abdullah, Qatar’s ruler Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

READ MORE: Click here for our coverage of COP28

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1305 GMT




Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of Turkiye, speaks during a plenary session at the COP28 UN Climate Summit on Dec. 1, 2023. (AP)

“When it comes to combating climate change, even though our historical responsibility of global greenhouse emissions is less than 1 percent, we’re taking significant steps with our own means,” Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of Turkiye, said in his speech.

“We plan to reach the net zero emissions target by the year 2053, we have doubled our emission reduction target for the year 2030.”

“Within this scope, by the end of this year, we expect to have mitigated 66.6 million tons of equivalent carbon dioxide,” he added.

“The share of renewables in our installed power generation capacity has been increased up to 55 percent. With this rate, Turkiye currently ranks the fifth in Europe and the twelfth in the world in terms of installed renewable energy capacity.”

“In regard to geothermal energy capacity we are ranked the first in Europe and fourth in the world. And when it comes to hydropower, Turkiye ranks the second the Europe and ninth in the world.”

1238 GMT




Santiago Peña Palacios, President of Paraguay.

“In my country Paraguay, all energy is clean. 100 percent is clean and renewable,” according to Santiago Peña Palacios, President of Paraguay.

1230 GMT




to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kazakhstan.

“We were the first country in the region to have ratified the Paris Agreement and adopted a carbon neutrality strategy by 2060,” according to Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of Kazakhstan.

“The resulting new environmental code of Kazakhstan will drive comprehensive adaptation of green technology in almost every sector in our economy.”

“There is extraordinary potential for wind and solar power in my country as well as green hydrogen. We will continue to work closely with our partners to unlock it,” he said.

“As the world’s leading exporter of uranium, providing 43 percent of global supply, Kazakhstan plays a crucial role in carbon free electricity generation on a global scale. As the world decarbonizes in the coming decades, critical minerals including rare earth metals will become indispensable, Kazakhstan is poised to become a major supplier of these transition minerals.”

“To build a momentum on climate action in central Asia, we decided to convene a regional climate summit in Kazakhstan in 2026 under the United Nations’ auspices.”

1218 GMT




Mohamed Cheikh El-Ghazouani, President of Mauritania.

“Climate change today is a battle for all of us, we either all win or all lose,” Mohamed Cheikh El-Ghazouani, President of Mauritania, said.

“It is clear to all, that this solidarity is still not to the required level, it is therefore essential to improve finance for environmental transformation and to provide support to developing countries without adding to their debt.”

1211 GMT




Denis Sassou Nguesso, President of Congo.

“I take this opportunity to reiterate the Republic of Congo’s steadfast commitment and determination to play an active role in the global effort to combat climate change,” Denis Sassou Nguesso, President of Congo, meanwhile said.

1205 GMT




Umaro Sissoco Embalo, President of Guinea-Bissau.

“Our coastal communities face rising sea levels and their harvests are impacted by increasingly unpredictable weather patterns and we face a loss of biodiversity,” according to Umaro Sissoco Embalo, President of Guinea-Bissau.

1202 GMT




Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe

“We are offering diverse opportunities for carbon trading in the energy sector though investment in solar, wind, and geothermal power generation,” Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, pitched in his speech.

1159 GMT




Gitanas Nausėda, President of Lithuania.

“At first, Lithuania made a strategic decision to seek energy independence. We have built our own LNG terminal which decreased prices and turned Lithuania into a regional gas hub,” Gitanas Nausėda, President of Lithuania, said in his speech.

1156 GMT




Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania.

“At this COP28, we seek to mobilize the pot to increase the use of clean and affordable cooking fuel and technologies across Africa, especially for women,” Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania, said at the High-Level Segment for Heads of State and Government session at the United Nations climate summit.

1150 GMT




Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

“Last September, at the climate action summit in New York, we called for concrete action. Now in Dubai we have to deliver,” Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, told the High-Level Segment for Heads of State and Government session at the United Nations climate summit.

“The European Union has peaked already, we have reduced emissions and we are on track to overshoot our target for 2030.”

1137 GMT




Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)

“We work today for tomorrow, and we cooperate for the generations of the future,” Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, said in his speech.

“We were the first to pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. We have allocated $163 billion for expansion of renewables and to transition towards renewable energies,” he added.

1130 GMT




Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan, at the High-Level Segment for Heads of State and Government session at the United Nations climate summit on Dec. 1, 2023.

“We commend the global initiative of the UAE in combating climate change and its significant contribution to green development,” Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of Uzbekistan, said in his speech.

“Transition to a green economy and achieving carbon neutrality are the key strategic objectives of new Uzbekistan… We intend to organize a conference in Uzbekistan in 2024, on the topic of climate migration” in cooperation with the United Nations.”

1116 GMT




Kenyan president William K. Ruto speaks during the High-Level Segment for Heads of State and Government session at the United Nations climate summit on Dec. 1, 2023.

“As we convene here in Dubai, we must appreciate that the presence of almost 200 nations speaks volume about the magnitude of this event and what it stands for,” according to Kenyan president William K. Ruto.

“The long-standing adversarial dynamic between global north and global south proves practically counterproductive. This division has hindered our ability to unite and leverage our collective strength, and robs us of tremendous opportunities. Yet, in the face of a threat that endangers the health of our planet, and our very existence, we must find in collective action a force that neutralizes and transcends these divisions. Climate change does not respect artificial distinctions, traditional boundaries or old antagonisms. Instead, it should unite us against a shared borderless challenge,” according to Ruto.

“Turning Africa into a green powerhouse is not just essential for the continent, it is also vital for global industrialization (and) decarbonization.”

1114 GMT




Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei speaks during the High-Level Segment for Heads of State and Government session at the United Nations climate summit on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)

“Climate change has emerged as our generation’s most urgent challenge, threatening our existence,” according to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei.

“We aim to plant half a million trees by 2035, expanding our carbon think further,” the Brunei leader said.

1101 GMT




Jordan’s King Abdullah II speaks during a plenary session at the COP28 UN Climate Summit on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)

“This year’s conference of the parties must recognize even more than ever that we cannot talk about climate change in isolation from the humanitarian tragedies unfolding around us,” King Abdullah II of Jordan said in his speech.

“As we speak, the Palestinian people are facing an immediate threat to their lives and wellbeing. In Gaza over 1.7 million Palestinians have been displaced from their homes. Tens of thousands have been injured or killed in a region already on the front line of the climate change.”

“As we meet here today to talk about inclusivity in climate response, let’s be inclusive of the most vulnerable: Palestinian civilians impacted by the war on Gaza, populations around the world affected by conflict and poverty,” he added.

“In a region already on the front lines of climate change, the massive destruction of war makes these environmental threats of water scarcity and food insecurity even more severe,” he said, in a clear reference to fighting between Israel and Hamas militants in Gaza that resumed on Friday after a seven-day truce.

1055 GMT




Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi speaks during the high-level Segment session at the United Nations climate summit on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)

“COP28 is taking place amid dangerous and grave political challenges that are no less dangerous than climate change,” Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi said at high-level session at the United Nations climate summit.

“Egypt is well aware of the importance of reinforcing collective work to address the challenge of climate change and to guarantee eco -friendly development to preserve planet earth for coming generations.”

1041 GMT




Dennis Francis, president of the UN General Assembly, speaks during a plenary session at the COP28 UN Climate Summit on Dec. 1, 2023 in Dubai. (AP)

“The Paris agreement remains the best answer to the effects of the climate crisis,” according to Dennis Francis, President of the United Nations General Assembly.

“Progressive transformative action is needed now, to stabilize the atmospheric temperature and to insure sustainability of the planet and the human civilization,” he said during a plenary session at the COP28 UN Climate Summit.

“I am pleased to announce that I will convene the first ever general assembly sustainability week at UN headquarters in New York in April 2024.”

“This week will consolidate several high level already mandated events, promoting sustainability in transport, tourism and infrastructure sectors,” Francis added.

“We need to not only be risk informed but also resilient at every level and across all stakeholders, thus leaving no one behind.”

1032 GMT




Narendra Modi, India’s Prime minister speaks at the COP28 High-Level Segment National Statements event. (Reuters)

“Thanks to our collective efforts, today the world is convinced that for the welfare of humanity, everyone’s interest must be protected and everyone’s participation is essential,” Narendra Modi, India’s Prime minister, said at the COP28 High-Level Segment National Statements event.

“We have set targets to bring our emission intensity down to 45 percent by 2030, we have decided that we will increase the share on non-fossil fuel to 50 percent and we shall continue to move ahead in achieving our goal of net zero by 2070.”

“We have together recognized that there’s a need to take climate finance commitment from billions to several trillions. We do not have much time to correct the mistakes of the last century, over the past century a small section of humanity has indiscriminately exploited nature, however entire humanity is paying the price for this,” he said.

“Friends, we do not have much time to correct the mistakes of the last century. Over the past century, a small section of humanity has indiscriminately exploited nature. However, entire humanity is paying the price for this, especially people living in the global south.”

“We must resolve that every country shall fulfil the climate targets it is setting for itself and the commitments it is making.”

Modi also offered to host the UN’s COP33 climate conference in 2028. Speaking at COP28 talks in Dubai, Modi said every country must fulfil their climate targets and “work in unity.”

“Today the entire world is watching us. Mother Earth is looking toward us to protect her future. We have to succeed,” he said.

“From this platform today, I propose that India will host COP33 in 2028.”

Modi has sought to raise India’s profile on the world stage as leader of the planet’s most populous country, which hosted a G20 summit this year.

0920 GMT




President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil speaks during an opening ceremony at the COP28 UN Climate Summit on Dec. 1, 2023. (AP)

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil, home to most of the world’s biggest natural carbon-capture zone on land, the Amazon rainforest, said “the planet is tired of climate agreements that were not fulfilled” and he said he has had enough of “eloquent and empty speeches.”

“In the north of Brazil, the Amazon region suffers one of the most tragic droughts of its history. In the South, we are facing tempests and hurricanes that lead to a lot of destruction and death,” he said.

Lula, who a year earlier was treated like a rock star after his defeat of right-wing Jair Bolsanaro, called for climate justice for poorer nations that didn’t cause the problem and railed against $2 trillion spent on weapons last year when the money should be spent on fighting hunger and climate change, not wars.

He said Brazil will stop Amazon deforestation by 2030.

“No country will solve their problems alone. We are all obliged to act together beyond our borderlines. Brazil is willing to lead as a role model,” he said. “The world is already convinced of the potential of renewable sources of energy. Now is the time to face the debate about the slow-motion pace of the decarbonization of the planet, and to work towards an economy that will be less reliant on fossil fuel. We have to do it, and in a way that is urgent and fair.”

0850 GMT




King Charles III speaks during an opening ceremony at the COP28 UN Climate Summit on Dec. 1, 2023 in Dubai. (AP)

Britain’s King Charles III is praying that the UN’s COP28 climate talks will be a “critical turning point” in the fight against global warming, he told world leaders in Dubai on Friday.

“I pray with all my heart that COP28 will be another critical turning point toward genuine transformational action,” he told the World Climate Action Summit, held in parallel with COP28.

“We are seeing alarming tipping points being reached.”

“It worries me greatly that we remain so dreadfully far off track,” the King added, after the UN’s first official progress report in September found that the world remained dangerously off course.

“In your hands is an unmissable opportunity to keep our common hope alive,” said the British monarch, wearing a light suit with pink shirt and blue tie.

The lifelong environmentalist spoke at COP26 in Scotland in 2021 but did not attend the last conference in Egypt.

The British monarch also said that “unless we rapidly repair and restore nature’s unique economy, based on harmony and balance, which is our ultimate sustainer, our own economy and survivability will be imperiled.”

“I have seen across the commonwealth and beyond, countless communities which are unable to withstand repeated shocks triggered by climate change.”

0830 GMT




UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks at the opening ceremony of the high-level COP28 event in Dubai. (AP)

“We are miles from the goals of the Paris Agreement – and minutes to midnight for the 1.5°C limit. But it is not too late,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in his speech.

“You can prevent planetary crash and burn. We have the technologies to avoid the worst of climate chaos, if we act now,” he said.

“The global shift to renewables is inevitable. The only question is how much heating our planet will endure before it happens,” Guterres added. “I urge countries to speed up their net zero timelines, to get there as close as possible to 2040 in developed countries and 2050 in emerging economies.”

“Climate chaos is fanning the flames of injustice,” Guterres said. “Global heating is busting budgets, ballooning food prices, upending energy markets, and feeding a cost-of-living crisis. Climate action can flip the switch.”

Guterres, a long-time critic of oil, gas and coal use that is causing climate change, fired his strongest shots yet against the industry, saying, “we cannot save a burning planet with a firehose of fossil fuels.”

In a direct contradiction to fossil fuel-aligned nations and even the presidency of the talks, he said the only way to limit warming to the goal set in 2015 requires eliminating oil, coal and gas use, saying “not reduce, not abate, phase out.”

“I urge governments to help industry make the right choice – by regulating, legislating, putting a fair price on carbon, ending fossil fuel subsidies, and adopting a windfall tax on profits.”

“Developed countries must show how they will double adaptation finance to $40 billion a year by 2025, as promised, and clarify how they deliver on the $100 billion, as promised,” Guterres said. “The climate challenge is not just another issue in your inbox. Protecting our climate is the world’s greatest test of leadership. I urge you to lead,” he added.

0815 GMT




UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan speaks during an opening ceremony at the COP28 UN Climate Summit on Dec. 1, 2023 in Dubai. (AP)

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al-Nahyan said that the UAE has set a national goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. He highlighted the country’s strong commitment to climate action, emphasizing decades of effort in diversifying the economy and advancing capabilities in renewables.

“The UAE is committed to a 40 percent reduction in emissions by 2030. To date, we have invested $100 billion in financing climate action, focusing on renewable and clean energy. We are also committed to investing approximately US$130 billion over the next seven years,” he said in his speech

“We are finding practical ways to accelerate the world’s transition to low-emission economy,” the UAE leader said, and noted that the lack of financing has long been one of the biggest obstacles to advancing climate action globally.

Sheikh Mohamed also announced the establishment of a $30 billion climate fund for global climate solutions.

The fund is designed to bridge climate finance gap and aims to stimulate $250 billion of investment by 2030, he said.

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Participating world leaders pose for a family picture at the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)
Participating world leaders pose for a family picture at the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)
Participating world leaders and delegates arrive for the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (Abdulrahman Fahad Bin shulhub/AN)
Participating world leaders and delegates pose for a family photo during the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)
Participating world leaders and delegates pose for a family photo during the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)
Participating world leaders and delegates pose for a family photo during the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)
Participating world leaders and delegates pose for a family photo during the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai on Dec. 1, 2023. (AFP)

The COP28 conference notched an early victory on Thursday with the launch of a long-awaited fund to address growing loss and damage from wilder weather and rising sea in vulnerable countries.

Initial pledges have been made to the fund to officially put it into operation, with a $100-million contribution from the UAE matched with the same from Germany.

Britain gave just over $50 million, while the United States offered $17.5 million and Japan $10 million.

The European Union and its member states later confirmed a further $145 million, bringing the total to more than $420 million so far.

Delegates however face two weeks of tough negotiations on an array of issues that have long bedeviled climate talks, starting with the future of fossil fuels.

Saudi Arabia is hosting the third edition of the Saudi Green Initiative Forum on Dec. 4, alongside UN’s COP28 event, to highlight its dedication to build a greener future at a time of multibillion dollar giga-projects.

 

 

The SGI forum will gather influential figures, climate experts and thought leaders to present their insights and recommendations for tackling climate change as well as showcase the initiative’s achievements and plans.

with agencies


Citi gets license for regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, memo shows

Updated 22 November 2024
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Citi gets license for regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia, memo shows

  • Wall Street giant received the approval from the Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: US bank Citigroup has received approval to establish its regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh, according to an internal memo seen by Reuters on Friday.
The Wall Street giant received the approval from the Ministry of Investment Saudi Arabia (MISA), according to the memo.
“This marks a significant leap forward for our franchise in Saudi Arabia and we look forward to our continued growth in the kingdom,” Citi Saudi Arabia CEO Fahad Aldeweesh said in the memo.
Bloomberg News reported the development earlier in the day.
Wall Street titan Goldman Sachs also received a license in May to set up its regional headquarters in Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh.


Saudi Arabia joins global hydrogen fuel partnership

Updated 22 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia joins global hydrogen fuel partnership

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has joined a key international alliance designed to enhance cooperation around the development and deployment of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

The International Partnership for the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Economy works to deliver a balanced and effective global transition to cleaner and more efficient energy systems.

The Kingdom’s Ministry of Energy announced Saudi Arabia had signed up to the organization, with a press release saying the move represents a new step that confirms the “pioneering role” that the Kingdom is playing in international efforts aimed at enhancing sustainability and “innovating advanced solutions” in the fields of clean power.

Saudi Arabia has pledged to achieve zero neutrality in terms of carbon emissions by 2060, as well as becoming one of the world’s most important producers and exporters of clean hydrogen.

The press release added: “The Kingdom’s accession to this partnership confirms its firm vision regarding the role of international cooperation and its importance in achieving a more sustainable energy future.”

The IPHE was originally launched in 2003 by the US, and has two active working groups covering Education & Outreach, and Regulations, Codes, Standards, & Safety.


COP29 enters final hours amid key negotiations on climate finance and carbon markets

Updated 22 November 2024
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COP29 enters final hours amid key negotiations on climate finance and carbon markets

BAKU: As COP29 nears its conclusion, negotiators are working intensively to finalize agreements that could significantly advance global climate action. 

Hosted in Baku, Azerbaijan, the conference has focused on critical issues such as climate finance, adaptation strategies, and the operationalization of carbon markets under the 2015 Paris Agreement. 

Although decisions remain in draft form, the discussions signal progress on aligning global efforts with the urgent need to combat the climate crisis.

Saudi Arabia has emerged as a key player, leveraging its growing diplomatic influence and domestic climate initiatives to shape the outcomes.

Push for equitable climate finance

One of the most pressing topics at COP29 has been the New Collective Quantified Goal on climate finance. 

Negotiators are seeking to establish a framework that mobilizes $1.3 trillion annually by 2035 to support developing nations in addressing climate change. 

This new goal reflects the escalating financial demands of both mitigation and adaptation efforts, with developing countries requiring $215 billion to 387 billion annually for adaptation alone through 2030.

Saudi Arabia has been a vocal advocate for equitable financing mechanisms, emphasizing the need for practical pathways to unlock funds for countries that bear the brunt of climate impacts yet have limited resources. 

The Kingdom has supported calls for reforming global financial institutions to reduce barriers such as high borrowing costs and restrictive conditions. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader position that climate finance must be accessible and targeted to the most vulnerable nations.

Domestically, Saudi Arabia has backed its advocacy with action. The Kingdom has committed significant investments to its Saudi Green Initiative, which includes billions of dollars for renewable energy projects, reforestation, and environmental restoration. 

These initiatives underscore Saudi Arabia’s dual focus on addressing domestic climate challenges and contributing to global solutions, according to the draft resolution. 

“Through initiatives like the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom has committed to reducing regional emissions by more than 10 percent and leading the planting of 50 billion trees across the Middle East to combat desertification and foster environmental sustainability,” the document stated.

Speeches came to an end as negotiations at COP29 in Baku reached their final hours. AN Photo/Abdulrahman Bin Shulhub

Carbon Markets: A Saudi priority

Discussions on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which governs international carbon trading, have been another focal point of COP29. 

Saudi Arabia has taken a prominent role in shaping the rules for carbon markets, advocating for frameworks that promote transparency and equitable participation.

Under Article 6.2, which covers bilateral cooperation, and Article 6.4, which establishes a centralized mechanism for trading carbon credits, Saudi negotiators emphasized the importance of avoiding double-counting emissions reductions and ensuring environmental integrity. 

These safeguards are essential for building trust in the carbon market as a tool for accelerating emissions reductions.

In the draft resolution on financing released by the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change it is outlined that “Saudi Arabia emphasizes the importance of transparency and equitable participation in Article 6 mechanisms, ensuring that developing nations can benefit from international carbon trading frameworks.”

The Kingdom’s engagement in these discussions reflects its broader ambition to become a regional hub for carbon trading. The Kingdom is advancing projects in carbon capture, utilization, and storage, positioning itself as a leader in leveraging market-based solutions to achieve climate goals. 

These efforts align with the Saudi Green Initiative’s targets for emissions reductions and renewable energy expansion.

A commitment to adaptation

While mitigation often dominates global climate discussions, COP29 has seen renewed attention to adaptation – an area where Saudi Arabia has also contributed actively.

Negotiators are working to refine the Global Goal on Adaptation by developing measurable indicators to track progress.

These metrics aim to ensure that adaptation efforts are effective and responsive to the needs of vulnerable communities.

“Saudi Arabia continues its focus on promoting energy efficiency, a critical pillar of its sustainability agenda, as highlighted by top officials during COP29 discussions,” reads the draft resolution.​

The Kingdom has supported these efforts, emphasizing the importance of integrating local knowledge and traditional practices into adaptation strategies. The Kingdom’s approach aligns with its domestic priorities, which include enhancing resilience to desertification and water scarcity, challenges exacerbated by its arid climate, the document added.

Inclusivity and collaboration

Inclusivity has been a central theme at COP29, and Saudi Arabia has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring diverse voices are part of the climate conversation. The Kingdom supported the draft Baku Workplan, which aims to elevate indigenous peoples and local communities in climate governance.

Domestically, Saudi Arabia has prioritized inclusivity through education and workforce development programs that prepare youth and women for leadership roles in green industries. 

These initiatives are part of broader reforms under Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy while ensuring equitable opportunities for all citizens.

COP29 began on Nov. 11. AN Photo/Abdulrahman Bin Shulhub

Regional leadership

Saudi Arabia’s influence extends beyond its national borders. Through the Middle East Green Initiative, the Kingdom is fostering regional cooperation to combat climate change.

The initiative includes ambitious goals to plant 50 billion trees across the Middle East and reduce regional emissions by more than 10 percent.

At COP29, these efforts were presented as examples of how regional action can amplify global progress.

By working closely with other Gulf Cooperation Council countries, Saudi Arabia is also driving investments in renewable energy projects that enhance energy security and sustainability. 

These partnerships underscore the Kingdom’s role as a regional leader in climate action, capable of catalyzing collective efforts to address shared challenges.

Challenges and opportunities ahead

As COP29 approaches its conclusion, much remains to be finalized. The draft decisions on climate finance, carbon markets, and adaptation reflect significant progress but also underscore the complexity of reaching consensus among diverse stakeholders.

Saudi Arabia’s contributions to these discussions demonstrate its ability to balance domestic priorities with international leadership. By advocating for equitable solutions, advancing regional cooperation, and showcasing its own climate successes, the Kingdom has positioned itself as a key player in shaping the global response to climate change.

The conference has marked an important step forward in the global fight against climate change. The agreements under discussion – particularly those on finance and carbon markets – highlight the growing recognition that collective action is essential to achieving the Paris Agreement’s goals.

Saudi Arabia’s active participation in these negotiations underscores its evolving role as a climate leader. 


Saudi cement sales up 5% to 12.84m tonnes amid sustainability drive

Updated 22 November 2024
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Saudi cement sales up 5% to 12.84m tonnes amid sustainability drive

RIYADH: Cement sales in Saudi Arabia saw an annual increase of 4.93 percent in the third quarter of 2024, reaching 12.84 million tonnes, according to recent data.

Figures released by Al-Yamama Cement showed that 96.18 percent of these sales were domestic, with only 3.82 percent being exported.  

The data covers 17 Saudi cement companies, with Al-Yamama Cement holding the largest share of domestic sales at 12.47 percent, amounting to 1.54 million tonnes, despite experiencing a 27.18 percent decline during the period.

With the successful acquisition of Hail Cement Company by Qassim Cement Company, QCC now leads the market with the highest share among its peers at 13.37 percent, or 1.65 million tonnes, moving Al-Yamama Cement to second place.

Saudi Cement, Southern Cement and Yanbu Cement held 8.96 percent, 8.49 percent and 8.18 percent shares of the domestic market respectively.

The highest growth in domestic sales was recorded by Umm Al-Qura Cement, which saw a 69 percent increase to 372,000 tonnes during this period, despite holding a relatively small 3 percent market share.

City Cement’s local sales rose by 52.69 percent annually to 739,000 tonnes, while Tabuk Cement experienced a 27.3 percent increase, reaching 429,000 tonnes.  

In terms of cement exports, Saudi Cement dominated with 80.45 percent of total shipments, amounting to 395,000 tonnes this quarter.  This figure represents a 13.18 percent increase compared to the same quarter last year.   

Najran Cement accounted for 11 percent of exports for the quarter, totaling 54,000 tonnes, marking a 24 percent decline. Eastern Cement with 8.55 percent share saw a 133 percent rise in exports, reaching 42,000 tonnes. 

Saudi Arabia also exported 1.08 million tonnes of clinker during this period, marking a 41 percent decline compared to the same period last year.

Clinker, a crucial intermediate product in cement production, is commonly exported due to its cost-effectiveness. It is more economical to ship it to other countries for final processing into cement than to produce the finished product and then export.

According to a report by AlJazira Capital, the total utilization rate of the cement sector in Saudi Arabia stood at 72.8 percent in September. 

This figure represents the proportion of the cement production capacity that is actively being used to meet demand.

A utilization rate of 72.8 percent indicates that, on average, the cement industry in Saudi Arabia is using just over two-thirds of its available production capacity.

Saudi Arabia is a prominent player in the global cement industry, ranking among the top 10 producers worldwide. The Kingdom’s production capacity has been bolstered by significant investments to meet both domestic demand and export opportunities.

Key factors driving Saudi Arabia’s cement industry include its robust infrastructure development, housing projects, and initiatives under Vision 2030, which aim to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil revenues.

Saudi Arabia’s path to decarbonization

In October, Saudi Arabia’s cement sector took a significant leap towards decarbonization with the announcement of a joint venture between the UK’s Next Generation SCM and Nizak Mining Co., a subsidiary of City Cement.

The collaboration is focused on producing supplementary cementitious materials locally, utilizing an innovative, energy-efficient technology.

This new method requires only one-sixth of the fuel compared to conventional cement production and operates at lower temperatures, significantly reducing operational costs and carbon emissions.

The technology already demonstrates a 99 percent reduction in emissions, producing just 8 kg of CO2 per tonne of calcined clay, compared to the global average of 600 kg per tonne.

The joint venture is part of the Kingdom’s broader decarbonization strategy, which is aligned with Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.

As part of these proposals, the Kingdom has set an ambitious goal of cutting carbon emissions by 278 million tonnes annually by 2030.

This venture, which will have its first production plant in Riyadh, is expected to produce up to 700,000 tonnes of low-carbon supplementary cementitious materials in its second year of operations, starting in 2025.

The project is also crucial for the domestic production of low-carbon concrete, as traditional SCM alternatives, like fly ash and slag, are not readily available in Saudi Arabia.

The venture will not only help Saudi Arabia meet its sustainability targets but also strengthen its position as a regional hub for low-carbon materials, generating both economic and environmental benefits.

Speaking in October, Majed Al-Osailan, CEO of City Cement, emphasized the long-term impact of the project, stating that it will create jobs, improve access to sustainable building materials, and create export opportunities for the Kingdom.

According to a study by the Boston Consulting Group in September, Saudi Arabia stands to gain a significant competitive advantage in the global cement industry as the sector moves toward decarbonization through carbon capture and storage.

The competitive dynamics of the industry are shifting due to the high costs associated with CCS, which is essential for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

One of the primary factors influencing future competitiveness is a plant’s proximity to CO2 storage sites.

Cement plants located within 200 km of CCS hubs could see abatement costs reduced by half compared to those located farther away.

This geographical advantage will be crucial in determining cost competitiveness on a global scale.

Saudi Arabia, with its lower energy costs, is well-positioned to capitalize on this advantage according to the study. The Middle East, in general, benefits from cheaper energy, which could give Saudi plants a $20 per tonne cost advantage in CCS over the global median.

This would allow Saudi Arabia to emerge as a key export hub in the global cement market. 

Plants in the Kingdom that can minimize their CCS abatement costs will be internationally competitive, particularly as global trade dynamics shift and demand grows for low-carbon cement.

Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s energy infrastructure and strategic location near key shipping routes bolster its potential as a regional and global supplier of cement.

With substantial investments in CCS technology and renewables, the Kingdom could not only meet domestic demand but also serve international markets more efficiently, securing its position in the evolving global cement trade.

As the cost of CCS implementation rises, the global competitive landscape will be reshaped, with plants closer to CO2 storage hubs and renewable energy sources becoming more attractive.

Saudi Arabia’s competitive edge, therefore, lies in its ability to leverage its energy resources and strategic location, potentially making it a leader in the export of low-carbon cement solutions.


Oil Updates – crude heads for weekly gains as Ukraine war intensifies

Updated 22 November 2024
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Oil Updates – crude heads for weekly gains as Ukraine war intensifies

LONDON: Oil prices inched lower on Friday, but were on track for a weekly rise of nearly 4 percent, as an intensifying war in Ukraine returned a geopolitical risk premium to oil markets.

Brent crude futures fell 65 cents, or 0.88 percent, to $73.58 a barrel by 4:12 p.m. Saudi time. US West Texas Intermediate crude futures fell by 66 cents, or 0.94 percent, to $69.44 per barrel.

Pressuring prices on Friday, eurozone business activity took a surprisingly sharp turn for the worse this month as the bloc’s dominant services industry contracted and manufacturing sank deeper into recession.

Kazakhstan’s largest oilfield, Tengiz, is scheduled to return to full production in early December, Russian news agency Interfax reported on Friday, while elsewhere Kazakhstan’s energy ministry said it plans to produce 90 million tonnes of oil in 2025, up from 88 million tonnes in 2024.

Both contracts are set for gains of nearly 4 percent this week, as Moscow steps up its Ukraine offensive after Britain and the United States allowed Kyiv to strike deeper into Russia with their missiles.

“The Russia-Ukraine escalation has raised geopolitical tensions beyond levels seen during the year-long conflict between Israel and Iran-backed militants,” Saxo Bank analyst Ole Hansen said on Friday.

He added that rising refinery margins and an incoming cold snap had also supported distillate refinery profit margins, and wider oil prices, this week.

The Kremlin said on Friday that a strike on Ukraine using a newly developed hypersonic ballistic missile was a message to the West that Moscow will respond harshly to any “reckless” Western actions in support of Ukraine.

Ukraine has used drones to target Russian oil infrastructure, for instance in June, when it used long-range attack drones to strike four Russian refineries.

“What the market fears is accidental destruction in any part of oil, gas and refining that not only causes long-term damage but accelerates a war spiral,” said PVM analyst John Evans.

Also supporting prices this week, China announced policy measures on Thursday to boost trade, including support for energy product imports, amid worries over US President-elect Donald Trump’s threats to impose tariffs.

China’s crude oil imports are set to rebound in November, according to analysts, traders and ship tracking data.