UAE's COP28 leader: 'Fight climate change, not each other'

The United Arab Emirates’ pick to lead the upcoming COP28 climate talks in Dubai called on the world Tuesday to “fight climate change, not each other,” directly addressing the anger activists have felt over his selection. Sultan al-Jaber, the CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Co., also said the upcoming United Nations negotiations should be about unity and action.

His speech at the World Government Summit in Dubai sought to present his nominated presidency as a bridge between oil companies and climate activists long suspicious of the industry’s influence on efforts to limit carbon emissions. Activists have equated his nomination to asking “arms dealers to lead peace talks” when authorities announced his nomination in January.

However, U.S. climate envoy John Kerry and France’s finance minister both have backed his selection by the UAE. COP28 will be held at Dubai’s Expo City from Nov. 30 through Dec. 12.