FIJI will focus on three key pillars at the pre-COP31 talks in Nadi where more than 3000 delegates are expected to gather.
Environment and Climate Change permanent secretary Dr Sivendra Michael said the three pillars will focus on the 1.5 Degree global warming target, the Ocean Climate Nexus and Climate Finance.
Dr Michael said under the 1.5 degree pillar, talks will focus on the transitioning away from fossil fuel pact, the mitigation work program and global stock take (GST).
“The Mitigation Work Program which is one of the most important aspects is around how you phase out fossil fuels and what are the elements of moving towards renewable energy,” he said.
“Those are all of the key things that are already in the official negotiation track.”
He said Fiji has been advocating alongside its regional partners for the Ocean Climate Nexus to be including in a COP action agenda.
“We are trying to see as the outgoing chair of the UNFCCC Ocean and Climate Dialogue, how do we bring Oceans into the agenda item.
“Second, Ocean is the least financed SDG which is SDG 14.
“We are looking at initiatives in the Pacific to be prioritised at this COP.”
Dr Michael added for climate finance, Fiji would be raising issues surrounding access to climate funds.
“One of the key things that we are talking about is what does access look like? It should not take five years.”
The meeting held from October 5 to October 9 will convene high level delegates from regional and non-regional countries in Fiji.
A special leader’s component will be held simultaneously in Tuvalu building from a special climate event to be convened as part of the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders meeting in Palau.
