Afghanistan must participate in future climate talks, especially after its first attendance at COP29 in Baku, according to environment official Matiul Haq Khalis. The delegation’s involvement was termed a significant achievement, as Afghanistan, facing critical impacts from climate change, seeks to raise awareness of its challenges on an international platform. The UN has urged support to help Afghanistan build resilience against these impacts and ensure its participation in global discussions.
Kabul’s National Environmental Protection Agency chief, Matiul Haq Khalis, emphasized that Afghanistan must be granted the opportunity to actively participate in future international climate negotiations. Following the Taliban’s initial attendance at COP29 in Baku, where they were present as guests rather than official delegates, Khalis termed this participation a significant achievement. He asserted that Afghanistan’s voice should be heard regarding the pressing environmental issues confronting the nation, underscoring the dire needs stemming from climate vulnerability despite minimal emissions.
During the recent conference, the Afghan delegation engaged with nineteen various organizations and foreign representatives, including those from Russia, Qatar, Azerbaijan, and Bangladesh. Khalis highlighted Afghanistan’s precarious position as a nation extremely susceptible to the impacts of climate change, which has resulted in severe droughts, frequent flooding, and diminished agricultural output due to warming trends. The Taliban government is advocating for inclusion in climate discussions, arguing that political isolation should not prevent Afghanistan from addressing its climate challenges.
The severe implications of climate change for Afghanistan are amplified by its ongoing political and economic difficulties, characterized by poverty and a fragile government. The United Nations has called for enhanced international support to bolster Afghanistan’s resilience against climate impacts and facilitate its participation in vital climate discussions. Concurrently, developed nations have pledged $100 billion in annual climate financing up to 2025 to assist developing countries in responding to these challenges and transitioning from fossil fuel dependency.
The article discusses Afghanistan’s recent attendance at COP29 amidst ongoing international political challenges following the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021. This conference marked the first instance of Afghan representation since that takeover, reflecting the country’s urgency to address climate change issues. Afghanistan is recognized as one of the countries most exposed to the adverse effects of climate change, which has been exacerbated by prolonged conflicts that have left it economically and politically vulnerable. The United Nations and other international entities recognize the need for Afghanistan’s voice in climate talks and support to combat the pressing environmental crises it faces.
In conclusion, Afghanistan’s recent participation in COP29 represents a critical milestone for the nation as it strives for engagement in global climate discussions. The Taliban government asserts that geopolitical factors should not hinder Afghanistan’s ability to advocate for its climate needs. The global community is called upon to support the country as it addresses the mounting challenges posed by climate change, with international financial aid being pivotal for its resilience efforts.
Original Source: www.france24.com
