The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) blocks decisions against fossil fuels. An accompanying letter is now causing a stir at the World Climate Conference in Dubai (COP28). In it, OPEC Secretary General Haithaum al-Ghais calls on allied countries to urgently oppose decisions against fossil energy.
The letter is addressed to thirteen member states and ten allied countries. “It appears that the unjustified and disproportionate pressure on fossil fuels may reach a tipping point with irreversible consequences,” Als-Ghais warned. They must therefore “proactively reject any text or formulation” that is fundamentally against fossil fuels. These include lignite, coal, peat, natural gas and crude oil. The letter has already been approved by the spokesman of the Iraqi oil ministry. Efforts to move away from fossil fuels would violate the rights of producing countries and their populations, the report said.
However, criticism came from many other countries, such as France, and from environmental protection organizations. Fossil fuels are responsible for more than 75 percent of global CO₂ emissions, says French Energy Minister Agnès Pannier-Runacher. “We have to get out if we want to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees.” This goal is non-negotiable, said Marshall Islands climate representative Tina Stege. “Nothing threatens the prosperity and future of all people on earth, including all citizens of OPEC countries, more than fossil fuels,” she said.
Demonstration in Vienna
This Saturday there will also be demonstrations in Vienna. The joint demonstration of Fridays For Future (FFF) Vienna and Humus started at 10:30 am at Ballhausplatz and is expected to end in front of the EU House. The European Union must take its responsibility when it comes to the climate, it was said. “After 28 years of global climate negotiations, the time has come to call the problem by its name. Get rid of coal, oil and gas. That is what is stated in the final text,” says climate activist Paula Dorten in a broadcast.
The 28th UN Climate Change Conference officially ends on Tuesday. In the past, climate conferences were usually extended. Minister of Climate Protection Leonore Gewessler (Greens) took part in the political negotiations in Dubai on Friday. “Our door is open, we have our comfortable shoes on and a great coffee maker,” EU Climate Commissioner and chief negotiator Wopke Hoekstra said on Saturday. He is ready to meet anytime and anywhere on the site.
Source: Krone
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