President Biden is set to skip the world leaders' summit at COP28 climate talks in Dubai
President Biden is set to skip the world leaders' summit at COP28 climate talks in Dubai. The decision has raised questions, as Biden attended the past two annual U.N. climate conferences. The U.S. climate envoy and other officials will attend, but the absence of the U.S. president may draw criticism, especially from developing countries vulnerable to climate change. The president's recent focus on the Israel-Hamas conflict and scheduled events in Colorado during the conference are cited as reasons for his absence. Notably, Vice President Harris is also not expected to attend.
In a surprising turn of events, President Biden has decided to skip the world leaders' summit at the COP28 climate talks in Dubai, sparking questions about the implications for global climate action. This unanticipated move comes despite his attendance at the past two annual U.N. climate conferences, leaving many wondering about the factors behind this decision.
While the U.S. climate envoy and other top officials are slated to represent the nation, Biden's absence may expose the United States to heightened criticism, particularly from developing countries most vulnerable to the consequences of climate change. As the world's largest historical emitter of greenhouse gases, the U.S. plays a crucial role in international climate negotiations.
The president's recent focus on the Israel-Hamas conflict has been cited as a potential reason for his decision. However, his schedule indicates events in Colorado during the first days of the COP28 conference. On Thursday, the opening day of COP28, Biden is scheduled to meet with Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço and participate in the White House Christmas tree lighting. The absence of public events on the first day of the world leaders' summit on Friday raises additional questions.
Interestingly, Vice President Harris is also not expected to attend the COP28 leaders' summit, with her schedule indicating holiday receptions on Friday and Saturday.
As other world leaders, including Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, confirm their attendance, Biden's decision not to join raises concerns about the U.S. commitment to global climate initiatives. The uncertainty regarding a potential visit during the second week of negotiations adds to the speculation.
The White House, while providing no travel updates for the president, expressed anticipation for a productive COP28 with the participation of Special Envoy John Kerry, National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi, and Senior Advisor John Podesta.
As environmental enthusiasts and experts watch closely, the absence of both President Biden and Vice President Harris at the COP28 leaders' summit adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing climate discussions.
#COP28, #ClimateAction, #BidenAbsence, #GlobalClimateLeadership, #EnvironmentalPolicy
