Arab Group Rejects UN Climate Deal Targeting Fossil Fuels at COP29 Saudi Official Asserts Commitment to Protecting Oil Interests Amid Climate Negotiations

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The negotiations in Baku have primarily focused on establishing a climate finance agreement to assist developing nations in combating global warming. However, tensions have arisen over a proposal to renew a pledge aimed at transitioning away from fossil fuels.

"The Arab Group will not accept any text that targets any specific sectors, including fossil fuel," stated Albara Tawfiq, a Saudi official representing the bloc, addressing delegates in Baku.

The previous year's COP28 in Dubai resulted in a significant agreement regarding the transition away from fossil fuels, but this was met with resistance from Saudi Arabia and the OPEC group of oil producers.

Irish climate minister Eamon Ryan emphasized the importance of adherence to last year's commitments, stating, "We all know that there has been a backsliding. There has been an attempt to interpret what we agreed last year as a menu." He urged that this trend must cease for the benefit of the Arab group as well.

Developed nations and countries vulnerable to climate change impacts have called for the reaffirmation of the Dubai commitment at COP29. Tina Stege, climate envoy for the Marshall Islands, remarked, "It is an embarrassment to all of us if we back away as climate impacts worsen all over the world."

"We need to transition away from fossil fuels," she stressed, highlighting the urgent need for collective action in the face of escalating climate challenges.

The ongoing discussions at COP29 underscore the complexities of balancing economic interests with global climate responsibilities, as nations navigate the path forward in addressing climate change