The high-level Thematic Round Table 5, held within the activities of the 5th UN Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5), discussed the best ways to address climate change and support the environment and the consequences of not succeeding in this endeavour on all countries of the world, especially the least developed countries (LDCs).
The discussion focused on the importance of building consensus to renew and revitalise international partnerships, mobilise resources and energies, and adopt additional international support measures for the LDCs to enhance their resilience to multiple shocks and accelerate the achievement of sustainable development goals (SDGs). Slovenia President Natasa Pirc Musar pointed out that climate change is not only a matter of human security but rather a major international security issue. It exacerbates security risks in conflict areas, imposes severe sources of instability, and exacerbates vulnerabilities.
She stressed that no country alone could avoid climate change, so there must be international co-operation and solidarity that avoid all, including the LDCs, the risks of climate change. French Minister of Development Chrysoula Zacharopoulou called for change the logic of helping LDCs to the one of investment, solidarity and economic partnership.
She said that the LDCs are have great opportunities in the field of climate change, as 60 % of the world resources is in them, calling on LDCs and other countries in the world to ensure the transition to green energy and the protection of biodiversity. The 27th UN Conference of States Parties (CSP27), which was held in Egypt, has made great progress and the states today must fulfil what they have pledged, she said adding that access to finance determines whether or not the LDCs will undertake strategic transitions.
But she stressed that provision of funding must pass through coherent national policies and a stable institutional framework.
pointing that public and private investors require transparency. Although they are rich in biodiversity and natural resources, LDCs are among the most vulnerable to the negative effects of climate change. The panel discussed mechanisms to reduce the vulnerability of these countries to environmental shocks and natural hazards, especially those related to climate change, and to enhance their ability to face these and other challenges by improving adaptability and resilience. (QNA)
