Arab group draws red line on fossil fuels at COP29

The Arab Group of Nations has declared its opposition to any text targeting fossil fuels, according to its representative, Albara Tawfiq of Saudi Arabia, at the UN Climate Conference in Baku, on what is officially the penultimate day of COP29.

"The Arab Group will not accept any text that targets specific sectors, including fossil fuels," said Tawfiq during a plenary session. Saudi Arabia currently holds the presidency of the Arab Group at the UN Climate body.

This statement underscores the divide between the Arab Group and European nations, who are pushing for stronger commitments to phase out fossil fuels, seen as a crucial step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

Last year at COP28, countries agreed to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels. However, progress since then has been limited.

"We all know there has been backsliding," said Eamon Ryan, Ireland's climate minister, addressing reporters after the release of a draft agreement earlier this week. "What we agreed last year is now being interpreted as a menu, with efforts to roll back commitments. This must stop, including for the Arab Group’s own interest," he added.

Ryan pointed out the shared vulnerabilities of countries, including those in the Arab Group, to the impacts of climate change. Recalling conversations with Sultan Al-Jaber, the Emirati president of COP28, he said:

"Sultan told me last year in Dubai, 'You know, Dubai is also at risk because it’s a low-lying region, and rising waters could cause serious damage.'"

The rejection of any language targeting fossil fuels by the Arab Group highlights the ongoing tensions at COP29. While some nations argue for a phase-out of fossil fuels, others see such measures as a threat to their economic and political interests.

As the clock ticks down, negotiators face increasing pressure to find a consensus that balances climate ambitions with the diverse priorities of member states. Whether COP29 can bridge this gap remains to be seen.