Solomon Islands climate negotiators and civil society organisations are better prepared to attend major climate talks in Brazil this year after undertaking training supported by Australia.
The training was led by Dr Ian Fry, Associate Professor at the Australian National University, a global expert in United Nations climate change negotiations. Dr Fry also brought practical experience having worked across the Pacific region, including as Tuvalu’s Ambassador for Climate Change.
Participants included officials from the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM), other government ministries, and civil societies under the Solomon Islands Climate Action Network.
The participants came away well-equipped for meaningful engagement at the 30th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30), to be held in Belém, Brazil, from 10-21 November. Participants defined clear strategic goals aligned with Solomon Islands’ national economic and development priorities and climate action policies.
The training also focused on drafting skills and the importance of interpreting decisions texts. A simulation exercise prepared the participants to follow proceedings and engage in discussions and interventions effectively to advance Solomon Islands’ priorities.
Australia’s High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said “Australia is committed to amplifying Pacific climate leadership on the world stage. I encourage every participant to take hold of this opportunity to build your confidence, strategic insights and skills in leading climate change negotiations.”
Australia is also supporting Solomon Islands delegates to attend COP30, as well as supporting the Moana Pavilion to create a space for Pacific-led climate tok stori.
Australia is bidding to host COP31 in partnership with the Pacific next year. Minister for the Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology, Honourable Polycarp Paea, met with his Australian counterpart, the Hon Chris Bowen MP, and other Pacific climate ministers in Australia last week in support of the joint bid and to discuss next steps.
– AHC
