Foreign Affairs

US President Joe Biden Not Attending COP28 Climate Summit in Dubai

US President Joe Biden's absence at COP28 in Dubai amplifies global push for carbon reduction; international leaders convene amidst his scheduling conflicts.

Global Climate Talks Forge Ahead Without US President Joe Biden’s Attendance! Know the reason here! 

In an anticipated move, US President Joe Biden has decided to skip the COP28 gathering in Dubai this week. This decision was confirmed by a US official on Sunday. The absence of President Biden is notable, considering the critical discussions on global carbon reduction strategies slated for the summit.

Earlier reports from The New York Times had hinted at Biden’s likely absence from this climate-centric meeting. Reuters also suggested uncertainty around Biden’s participation due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the upcoming intensity of his presidential campaign in January.

The White House revealed President Biden’s schedule for Thursday, highlighting prior commitments that include a bilateral meeting with President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço of the Republic of Angola and attendance at the National Tree Lighting event. These conflicting engagements influenced Biden’s decision not to attend COP28.

Read more:- Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in India for the G20 Summit!

Despite Biden’s absence, multiple countries are gearing up to advocate for a global agreement aimed at phasing out carbon-emitting sources like coal, oil, and gas during the Dubai meeting.

President Biden has been involved in previous COP summits since taking office in 2021. However, his non-appearance at this year’s gathering, hosted by a significant oil and gas producer like the United Arab Emirates, highlights the challenges in balancing international commitments amidst pressing domestic and global concerns.

We’re now on WhatsApp. Click to join

The upcoming Dubai event expects participation from leaders, ministers, and officials representing 198 nations, with an estimated 70,000 delegates. This marks the largest annual COP held within the framework of the 1992 UN Convention on Climate Change.

While UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to attend, the opening speeches will be delivered by significant figures including King Charles, UN Secretary-General António Guterres, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, and His Holiness, the Pope. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is also confirmed to attend, with an invitation extended to Bashar al-Assad, President of Syria.

Read more:- Delhi, Mumbai Police Websites Face Cyber Threats During G20 Summit 2023!

However, China’s President Xi Jinping is not anticipated to be present at the talks.

The absence of President Biden reflects the challenges leaders face in juggling global commitments with their country’s needs, emphasizing the complexity of aligning domestic and international priorities.

Like this post?
Register at One World News to never miss out on videos, celeb interviews, and best reads.

Ridam Sharma

She's a creative storyteller with a passion for illustration and animation. Whether with words or colors, she loves to create vibrant, thought-provoking pieces that inspire and evoke emotion.
Back to top button