Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has arrived in Belém, Brazil, to attend the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Upon his arrival, Browne engaged in high-level discussions with global leaders, including Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), and President Irfaan Ali of Guyana. These talks focused on collaborative strategies to enhance climate resilience, promote sustainable development, and ensure global health security in the face of a rapidly changing climate. Accompanied by a delegation of climate experts and officials, Browne delivered a compelling address at the COP30 Plenary Session, emphasizing the existential threats faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) due to climate change. He called for honesty, courage, and immediate action, stressing that the 1.5°C global warming limit is a lifeline for nations like Antigua and Barbuda. Browne highlighted the need for equitable climate finance, stronger global accountability, and accelerated emissions reduction, asserting that climate finance is a matter of justice, not charity. He also commended Brazil for hosting COP30 in the Amazon and launching the Tropical Forest Forever Facility, describing it as a symbol of global solidarity. Browne reaffirmed Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to resilience, adaptation, and the principles of Loss and Damage, urging the world to act with political and moral will to address the climate crisis.
PM Gaston Browne Arrives in Brazil for COP30, Urges Urgent Climate Action for Small Island States
