Kuwait calls for support for least developed countries at COP29

Kuwait has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060, Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah announced during the COP29 summit in Baku on November 13.

Speaking at the climate leaders’ summit, the Crown Prince highlighted that climate change is a global challenge posing significant threats to many nations, including Kuwait, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

“The consequences of climate change are becoming increasingly tangible and are accelerating due to rising temperatures, dust storms, and reduced rainfall, all of which now directly affect daily life in our country. In light of this, Kuwait reaffirms its dedication to environmental sustainability and to fulfilling its obligations under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. To meet these commitments, we are implementing a range of national projects and measures,” he said.

Crown Prince Al-Sabah called on developed countries to honour their commitments under the UNFCCC and to extend financial and technical assistance to the least developed countries (LDCs) to build their capacity to address climate challenges.

“With such support, these nations will be better positioned to confront the impacts of climate change, adapt effectively, and meet their nationally determined contributions (NDCs),” he explained.

The Crown Prince further noted that Kuwait, through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, is making substantial efforts to assist developing nations globally. “We have provided loans and grants totalling $27 billion to support development projects in these countries,” he added.

Kuwait’s approach to economic development up to 2050 has been shaped with an emphasis on low greenhouse gas emissions, the Crown Prince stated.

“Our goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, supported by strategic projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions across all sectors, with a particular focus on clean energy initiatives. We are also committed to integrating solar power into our energy mix, aiming for a 50% share by 2050. This will involve adopting new low-carbon technologies and fostering long-term partnerships to leverage sustainable energy solutions,” he said.

Additionally, Kuwait aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2040.

In closing, Crown Prince Al-Sabah expressed his gratitude to Azerbaijan for hosting the COP29 conference and commended the excellent organisation of the event.

By Aghakazim Guliyev