A delegation from St Helena is set to participate in the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. The team includes Christine Scipio, Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Planning, and Kedell Worboys, MBE, SHG UK representative.
The COP29 summit, running from November 11 to 22, 2024, serves as a crucial venue for international cooperation on climate change. St Helena will join the UK delegation from November 16 to 21. The participation aims to ensure that the island's concerns are represented at this significant event.
The delegation will attend various side events addressing issues affecting island nations like St Helena. Minister Scipio is scheduled to speak at two events: “Response to Climate Change: The Special Case of Small Island UK Overseas Territories” within the UK pavilion and “Islands, Ocean and the Climate: The role of Sub-National Island Jurisdictions” as part of Island Voices at @COP29. These engagements provide an opportunity for Minister Scipio to interact with UK Ministers and senior officials.
Kedell Worboys plays a significant role as Chair of the UK Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA) Environment Group. She has been pivotal in coordinating participation for all Overseas Territories at COP29 and securing a dedicated side event in the UK Pavilion on Wednesday, November 20 at 12:15 GMT.
Many side events will be streamed live on the COP29 YouTube channel. Events at the UK Pavilion can be viewed through their Events Programme online.
For small island nations like St Helena, participating in COP29 offers a platform to amplify their voices regarding climate challenges and solutions. It also allows them to form partnerships and highlight efforts in adapting to climate impacts.
Minister Scipio is also expected to have a bilateral meeting with Mary Creagh CBE MP during her visit to discuss environmental matters further.
Minister Scipio left St Helena on Sunday, November 10 and plans to return by Saturday, November 30. In her absence, Minister Henry will manage urgent matters related to her portfolio while she remains reachable via email.
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