Asia-Pacific States

During COP28, nations in the Asia-Pacific region remained divided over fossil fuels and market-based solutions to climate change, leading to extensive debates on carbon emissions. Emerging economies like China and India adopted a cautious approach, supporting a phasedown of fossil fuels rather than a complete phaseout.

 

In contrast, Pacific Island nations, facing the existential threat of rising sea levels, called for the swift phaseout of fossil fuels. Countries like Tuvalu and Vanuatu hosted an event to promote the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, urging other nations to join their efforts.

 

The UAE, a major oil-producing nation, faced criticism for allegedly using COP28 to secure secret oil and gas deals. Despite this, they acknowledged the joint statement by COP28 and the International Energy Agency, agreeing that fossil fuel demand and supply must phase down this decade. Additionally, the UAE made a significant gesture by donating $100 million to the new Loss and Damage Fund, aimed at helping developing countries address the impacts of climate change.

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​The UAE caused tensions by appointing the CEO of its state-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) as President-designate of COP28. This decision sparked strong reactions, with Greta Thunberg calling the appointment "completely ridiculous" and former U.S. Vice President Al Gore expressing concerns that the fossil fuel was “taking over the summit”. Adding to the controversy, the UAE was representing the Asia-Pacific region at COP28.