Patricia Scotland: No gaps should be in decisions taken during COP29

There should be no gaps between the decisions made and the actions taken during COP29 and the decisions and actions must go hand in hand, Patricia Scotland, sixth Commonwealth Secretary-General, stated during the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Summit at COP29, Report informs.

Scotland highlighted that financial support should remain a focal point in ensuring the formation of healthy and safe societies in small island nations: “Out of the 58 small island states, 29 are developing countries. Despite their potential, these nations face significant challenges when confronted with global economic and security threats due to their limited resources.”

The Secretary-General underscored the importance of continuous support for such nations. She emphasized the need to raise $4 trillion from foreign countries to establish climate finance. "An initial amount of $8.5 billion has been allocated, with an additional $600 million to be increased. This funding is designated for the implementation of projects in small island states," she explained.

Scotland called for the mobilization of all available resources. She urged vulnerable nations to recognize that the allocated climate finance is not charity but a necessity for their survival. Delaying action could deprive them of their future. "If we work together, we will achieve the highest level of results. I appeal to all nations to unite for a fairer world," she concluded.