Papua New Guinea’s PM Plans to Return to UN Climate Talks, Advocates for Forest Conservation

Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape has pledged to return to UN climate talks, emphasizing the importance of forest conservation as a priority. Following a boycott of this year’s summit, he plans to advocate at COP30 in Brazil for accountability from high carbon-emitting countries. The Prime Minister also supports Australia’s bid for COP31, contingent on prioritizing forestry issues.

Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape has announced his commitment to reintegrate into the United Nations climate summits following the nation’s boycott of this year’s event. The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity of prioritizing forest conservation to combat climate change effectively, asserting that discussions devoid of this focus are futile. Marape expressed intentions for Papua New Guinea to participate in the upcoming COP30 summit in Brazil, advocating for accountability from nations with substantial carbon footprints regarding forest preservation. Additionally, he stated readiness to support an Australian-led bid to co-host COP31 in 2026 provided forest issues are prioritized in the agenda. He highlighted that Papua New Guinea, possessing one of the largest rainforests globally, remains deeply vulnerable to climate change’s detrimental effects, underscoring the critical role forests play in mitigating carbon emissions.

The dialogue surrounding climate change often hinges upon tangible priorities such as forest conservation. Papua New Guinea, noted for its extensive rainforests, is facing significant threats from climate change, which exacerbates natural disasters and environmental degradation. The country has expressed discontent with the international climate negotiation process, particularly in light of perceived inadequacies in addressing forest conservation. The upcoming COP summits are pivotal opportunities for nations to renew commitments and seek action against climate threats, especially in forest preservation.

In summary, Prime Minister James Marape’s commitment to re-engaging in UN climate talks reflects Papua New Guinea’s urgent call for prioritized action on forest conservation within global climate frameworks. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on holding higher carbon-emitting nations accountable signifies an imperative shift towards integrating environmental stewardship into climate negotiations. As the nation prepares for future summits, the emphasis on safeguarding its rich forest resources remains crucial in addressing the existential threats posed by climate change.

Original Source: www.france24.com