In a display of international recognition and camaraderie, Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani was warmly received by prominent figures during the second day of the Dubai COP28 Global Climate Action Summit. Among those extending their greetings were the President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and UN General Secretary António Guterres. The exchange of pleasantries highlighted the growing importance of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) on the global stage and its commitment to addressing critical challenges facing humanity, as well as Prime Minister Barzani’s diplomatic achievements.
Engaging in meaningful dialogue
The Dubai COP28, the 28th edition of the UN Climate Change Conference, took place from November 30 to December 12 at Expo City in Dubai, UAE. The conference, officially known as the Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC, serves as an annual platform for participating governments to collaboratively formulate policies to restrict global temperature increases and devise strategies to adapt to climate change consequences. The COP conferences, initiated in 1992, play a crucial role in international dialogue and decision-making on climate-related issues.
Prime Minister Barzani seized the opportunity to engage in dialogues with notable global leaders, emphasizing the significance of cooperative efforts to tackle pressing issues related to climate change. Notable figures included King Charles, the President of the EU Commission, John Kerry, the Prince of Qatar, and several European Prime Ministers. These high-profile interactions served as a testament to Kurdistan’s active role in international affairs and its dedication to fostering collaboration in the face of the existential crisis posed by climate change.
The warm reception and the subsequent dialogues underscored both the ongoing diplomatic endeavors of Prime Minister Barzani and the importance of the KRI’s involvement in global initiatives, particularly concerning challenges that transcend national borders. As the world grapples with the urgent need for sustainable solutions to combat climate change, Kurdistan’s active participation in the summit signals a commitment to being part of the collective global effort to address this critical issue.
A commitment to change
The conclusion of COP28 marked a pivotal agreement signaling the end of the fossil fuel era. The accord laid the foundation for a rapid, fair, and equitable transition with substantial emissions reductions and increased financial support. Representatives from nearly 200 parties reached a landmark decision on the inaugural “global stocktake,” intensifying climate action to maintain the global temperature limit of 1.5°C within reach. This collective effort underscored a shared commitment to addressing climate change and set the stage for a transformative shift towards a more sustainable future on a global scale.
The presence of Prime Minister Barzani at the COP28 summit not only symbolized the KRI’s commitment to global collaboration but also highlighted its dedication to actively contributing to efforts aimed at mitigating the impacts of the existential crisis that is climate change. By engaging in meaningful discussions with world leaders, Prime Minister Barzani demonstrated the KRI’s proactive stance in finding innovative solutions and fostering international cooperation to address the challenges posed by climate change.
Dr. Marewan Hawramy is a writer and he holds a Master's Degree in diplomacy and international relations.
