KEYNOTE ADDRESS by Honourable Toeolesulusulu Cedric Pose Salesa Schuster – Minister for Natural Resources, Environment and Lands (Wednesday, 05 March 2025| 10:00am @ Lava Hotel)
Introduction
1. Talofa lava and warm greetings to you all. It is my great pleasure to address you today at this Post-COP29 Report Back Workshop.
2. This workshop serves as an essential platform for us to reflect on the outcomes of the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), held in Baku, Azerbaijan, and to chart our next steps in advancing Samoa’s climate agenda.
Reflections on COP29
3. At COP29, Samoa and other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) strongly advocated for ambitious climate action, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the climate crisis that threatens our livelihoods, economy, and future generations.
Among the key highlights of the conference were:
4. Climate Finance Commitments: The establishment of new funding mechanisms and pledges to the Loss and Damage Fund, which will play a crucial role in supporting vulnerable countries like Samoa. Progress on the negotiations for the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance, aiming for more predictable and accessible funding for adaptation and mitigation.
5. Mitigation and Adaptation: Calls for increased ambition in Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to align with the 1.5°C goal. Strengthening adaptation measures, particularly for countries most affected by climate-induced disasters.
6. Samoa’s Leadership and Contributions: Samoa’s role as a strong voice for the Pacific in negotiations, reinforcing the region’s common position.
7. Advocacy for streamlined access to climate finance, recognizing the challenges that SIDS face in navigating complex funding processes.
Moving Forward: Priorities for Samoa
8. As we return from COP29, we must ensure that the commitments made at the global level translate into tangible actions at the national and community levels. Our focus moving forward includes:
i. Strengthening Climate Resilience by enhancing community-based adaptation initiatives and disaster risk reduction measures to safeguard our people and environment.
ii. Access to Climate Finance to improve coordination among national agencies to tap into available funding and ensuring efficient implementation of climate projects.
iii. Enhancing Partnerships by working closely with our development partners, private sector, and civil society to drive sustainable solutions.
iv. Policy Implementation and Accountability: Ensuring our climate policies are effectively implemented and that we hold ourselves accountable to our commitments.
Closing Remarks
9. As we reflect on the outcomes of COP29, let us reaffirm our commitment to a resilient and sustainable Samoa. The road ahead requires collective action, determination, and strong partnerships. I encourage everyone here today to actively engage in discussions and contribute to the implementation of Samoa’s climate priorities.
10. On that note, I extend my sincere appreciation to all stakeholders involved in Samoa’s COP29 engagements and preparations for this workshop. May this gathering serve as a catalyst for meaningful progress in our fight against climate change.
11. Soifua ma ia manuia!
Photos by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Samoa
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