COP28 forced into overtime as fossil fuel phase-out divides countries

Majid Al Suwaidi, the Director General of Cop28, stated on Tuesday that the chair of the summit desired to add a “historic” remark on the future of fossil fuels in the following draft text for a settlement; nevertheless, it was up to the almost 200 states to reach a consensus during the discussions.

During a chat with the media, Al Suwaidi stated that the draft was always designed to “spark conversations.” This was in response to the extensive criticism that the most recent version received for its failure to include wording on eliminating the use of fossil fuels.

He claimed that the United Arab Emirates, currently in charge of the presidency, is now aware of the “red lines” of the various countries and that a new document will contain “all the elements we need for a comprehensive plan for 2030.”

Something that has never been done before, something that is historic, is something that we are attempting to do at this COP. The incorporation of fossil fuels into the text is a component of this. It would be a historic moment if we could do that,” he remarked.

He stated the following about the current negotiation situation: “Many issues remain open, and that is normal at this stage.”

According to him, the draft text that was made public on Monday, which caused fury among several industrialized nations and tiny island states, was intended to serve as a starting point for conversations, and “and that’s what’s happened,” which led to debates that lasted practically the whole night.

“By releasing our first draft of the text, we got parties to come to us quickly with those red lines,” he said.

“We spent last night talking, taking in that feedback and that has put us in the position to draft a new text.”