Mircea Fechet: Climate action must take precedence over political differences

The implementation of climate actions should take priority over political disagreements, and Romania calls on countries to focus on the planet's future, Romania's Minister of Environment, Water and Forests Mircea Fechet said at a high-level meeting during COP29, Report informs.

"It is obvious that these are no longer exceptions, but are becoming an integral part of our reality, becoming nature itself. The scientific community continues to warn us that exceeding the 1.5-degree threshold leads to an oppressive reality. It means economic, social, and political insecurity, including climate, and migration. These situations we must avoid at all costs. That is why we must act as one. Leaving aside differences and focusing on what is essential. Preserving a world where current and future generations can live. The time for inactivity is long gone and the implementation of climate actions must take priority over political differences," he said.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the implementation of climate actions should be perceived by all of us as an opportunity for economic development, social inclusion, ensuring security, well-being, and peace. Romania, together with all EU member states, is firmly committed to implementing the necessary measures to address climate change, both in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to its adverse effects. Romania has a long-term strategy to achieve climate neutrality by mid-century.

At the latest, specific sectoral measures are included in the international energy and climate plan designed to ensure the correct trajectory towards neutrality and the implementation of the EU-level NDC for 2030. We have also approved this summer a new national strategy for adaptation to climate change with a dedicated action plan containing specific measures for 13 economic and social sectors. Fellow Ministers, we are well aware that implementing both emission reduction and adaptation measures involves various challenges, including financial ones," he added.

"At COP 29, the negotiation of the NCQG is complex and reflects current global tensions, but also opportunities for international collaboration to address one of the greatest challenges of our times. Mobilizing sufficient resources to fulfill the goals of the Paris Agreement. The involvement of all entities is crucial in delivering on our climate ambitions.

To this end, in Romania, we are currently prioritizing the development of partnerships with the private sector on energy, transport, and industry decarbonization. Ladies and gentlemen, I urge everyone to work on awareness, education, and inclusive participation for a just transition, for effectively managing climate change, and for maintaining the goal of the Paris Agreement. Transparency remains a fundamental pillar at all stages of this process," he said.