The controversy surrounding COP28’s president highlights the challenges of balancing economic interests with the imperative to address the climate crisis on a global scale.
In a startling revelation, leaked briefing documents obtained by the BBC indicate that the United Arab Emirates (UAE), set to host the upcoming COP28 climate summit, planned to exploit its role to engage in oil and gas deals with 15 nations.
The president of COP28, Dr. Sultan al-Jaber, also the CEO of the UAE’s state oil company, Adnoc, and renewable energy company, Masdar, allegedly intended to discuss commercial interests in the lead-up to the global climate conference on November 30.
While COP presidents are expected to prioritize impartiality and the pursuit of global emission reduction goals, the leaked documents suggest a potential conflict of interest. Al-Jaber, responsible for encouraging countries to adopt ambitious climate goals, was reportedly slated to discuss oil and gas opportunities with various nations, raising concerns about the alignment of personal and professional interests.
The leaked documents outlined prepared objectives and talking points for al-Jaber’s meetings, shedding light on discussions facilitated by Adnoc and Masdar. The notes revealed plans to pursue strategic investments, including potential acquisitions of petrochemical companies in Brazil and exploring liquefied natural gas (LNG) opportunities in countries such as Mozambique, Canada, and Australia.
For meetings with oil-producing nations like Venezuela and Saudi Arabia, Adnoc purportedly advised al-Jaber to assert that there is no conflict between sustainable resource development and climate change commitments. The renewable energy company, Masdar, also provided notes for meetings with countries like the United States, highlighting aspirations to grow its presence through acquisitions and seeking support from the U.S. administration.
The revelations have sparked criticism from experts and officials, with some deeming the actions as “breathtakingly hypocritical.” The host UAE COP28 team’s alleged pursuit of oil and gas deals during climate talks has raised questions about the integrity of the summit and the potential impact on global efforts to address climate change.
Members of Congress and the European Parliament had previously expressed concerns over the appointment of an oil company executive, al-Jaber, as the president of COP28. In a letter, they called for his removal, citing the conflict of interest inherent in having an individual from a major oil and gas company lead climate negotiations.
Former Vice President Al Gore commented on the revelations, stating that the use of international climate talks to leverage support for increased oil and gas production is “utterly appalling.” The controversy surrounding COP28’s president adds complexity to the summit’s credibility and raises questions about the ability of key figures to navigate the delicate balance between economic interests and climate action.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) emphasized the importance of impartiality for COP presidents, stating that they are expected to act without bias and prioritize sound, independent, and fair judgment. The leaked documents, if accurate, suggest a potential violation of these standards and may undermine the credibility of COP28.
In response to the allegations, the host UAE team did not deny engaging in business talks during COP28 meetings, asserting that “private meetings are private.”
The team emphasized its focus on “meaningful climate action” but did not provide details on the discussions. The controversy surrounding COP28’s president highlights the challenges of balancing economic interests with the imperative to address the climate crisis on a global scale. As the climate summit approaches, scrutiny over the integrity of the negotiations and the role of key leaders is likely to intensify.