Russia Welcomes Appointment of UAE’s Al Jaber as COP28 Head

Russia backed on Monday the UAE’s appointment of Sultan Al Jaber as the Head of COP28.

“We are confident that Sultan Al Jaber and his professional team will ensure that the conference is well prepared for and efficiently conducted and that there will be tangible progress in overcoming the climate change problems in the interests of the entire international community,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The ministry emphasized the Russian Federation’s solidarity with Al Jaber, stressing the importance of maintaining close cooperation with all interested parties to resolve urgent issues of the climate agenda.

In like manner, US climate envoy John Kerry also voiced support for Al Jaber’s appointment, calling it a “terrific choice” because he is the CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC).

“He knows — and the leadership of the UAE is committed to transitioning,” Kerry affirmed. “He made it absolutely clear we’re not moving fast enough. We have to reduce emissions. We have to begin to accelerate this transition significantly.”

Meanwhile, COP28 will be held in Dubai during 30 November–12 December 2023.