UAE Will Participate in Vibrant Guj, PM Modi’s Meet Shows Friendship Between Nations: UAE Envoy | Exclusive

UAE’s Ambassador to India Abdulnasser Alshaali, in an exclusive interview with News18, said the meet between UAE President HH Mohammed Bin Zayed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was significant.

“Their interactions reflected a strong friendship, with agreements on various topics. Vibrant Gujarat was also on the agenda, and the UAE expressed its commitment to participating at the highest level in this key event following an invitation from PM Modi,” Alshaali said, adding that he was “excited about the inauguration of the BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi”.

Edited excerpts:

What were the key objectives and focus areas of the COP28 summit in the UAE?

The COP28 summit in the UAE focused on various areas. Notably, declarations were signed by several countries, including one on climate finance supported by India and the operationalization of the loss and damage funds, with the UAE contributing $100 million. The summit saw substantial financial commitments from various parties, highlighting the significant role played by the UAE in its COP28 presidency.

What specific priorities and initiatives did the UAE bring to COP28 to address climate change, and how does it plan to contribute globally?

The UAE operationalized the loss and damage fund, with over $700 million contributed by countries, including a substantial $100 million from the UAE. Numerous declarations were signed, such as the Agriculture and Food Declaration by over 130 countries and the Climate Health Declaration signed by 120 countries. The overall success of COP28 presidency is evident in the numbers, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to advancing global efforts for a sustainable future.

How is the UAE fostering collaboration with other nations and stakeholders to ensure a successful and impactful COP28 summit?

Flexibility was key in the face of challenges during COP28. The UAE, as the host, remained accommodating, considering comments and feedback until the end. Recognizing each country’s national priorities, development goals, and economic growth, the UAE aimed for inclusive collaboration, bridging gaps in positions to ensure a fair and successful outcome for all.

Beyond the summit, what are the UAE’s aspirations and commitments for ongoing climate action and sustainability efforts, and how does it plan to monitor and assess the impact of COP28 outcomes?

The UAE acknowledges that announcing numbers and pledging funds is just the beginning. The focus is on translating the outcomes of COP28 into tangible actions during subsequent COP presidencies. Ensuring a follow-up on pledges and effective utilization of resources is crucial in achieving climate goals and sustaining the impact of COP28.

In the recent high-level meeting between the President of the UAE and PM Modi on the sidelines of COP28, could you delve into the specific discussions on climate-related initiatives and also provide insights into the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat summit and the UAE’s role, especially considering PM Modi’s invitation to H.H.?

The meeting between the President of the UAE Abdulnasser Alshaali and Prime Minister Modi was significant, with discussions centering on COP28. Their interactions reflected a strong friendship, with agreements on various topics. Vibrant Gujarat was also on the agenda, and the UAE expressed its commitment to participating at the highest level in this key event, following an invitation from PM Modi.

Your thoughts on BAPS Temple coming up in Abu Dhabi, as there is a lot of excitement about the inauguration of the Temple?

I am equally excited about the BAPS Temple in Abu Dhabi. This landmark project is unprecedented in the region and reflects the UAE’s tolerance and acceptance of people from diverse backgrounds. The visible message of peace transcending religions and ethnicities is a testament to the UAE’s open-minded and inclusive approach. The tentative inauguration date is set for February 14, subject to any last-minute changes.