UnniKrishnan Divakaran Nair, the Commonwealth Secretariat’s Head of Climate Change, emphasized the critical role of climate finance in enhancing investments in low-carbon development and assisting vulnerable countries to cope with climate change impacts.
Nair highlighted that the Commonwealth has secured over $320 million in climate finance for smaller nations, with an additional $500 million being processed.
Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) during the 28th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai, he noted that this edition of COP presents an opportunity for collaborative efforts and a platform for dialogue among various stakeholders to propel global climate action.
He referenced the creation of the Commonwealth Climate Finance Access Hub (CCFAH), an initiative of the Commonwealth Secretariat aimed at facilitating financial aid to developing countries.
This move underscores the commitment of the 56 Commonwealth member states to actively address climate change.
The representative also mentioned efforts to train approximately 2,500 officials from member states, aimed at enhancing their capabilities.
Additionally, the initiative includes conducting research and compiling statistics for a more profound understanding of climate change issues.
This effort aligns with implementing the Commonwealth Charter, which is consistent with the United Nations’ commitments to tackle climate change, desertification, and biodiversity loss.
Nair urged the exchange of solutions among Commonwealth member states and advocated for the promotion of new and renewable energy projects.
