Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, addressing the UN COP29 climate summit, stressed the need for Europe to enhance resources to combat climate change effectively. He called for a balance between immediate disaster response and long-term climate goals, citing Greece’s progress in renewable energy while grappling with the adverse effects of climate shocks, such as wildfires and floods.
European nations, particularly Greece, recognize the urgent necessity of increasing resources to address climate change effectively. During his address at the UN COP29 climate summit in Baku, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized that while Europe leads in the green transition, attention must also be given to immediate climate-related challenges. He urged a balanced approach, reinforcing the need to respond to current disasters while remaining committed to long-term goals such as transitioning to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Mitsotakis pointed out that Greece has made significant strides in renewable energy, having doubled its renewable energy output since 2014, which now comprises about half of its energy generation. The country aims to eliminate coal-fired power plants by 2028. However, it has faced severe climate impacts, including unprecedented floods and wildfires, which have exacerbated the need for relief and recovery efforts. He reported that Greece experienced its hottest summer on record following a dry winter, underlining the immediate threats posed by climate change. The Prime Minister expressed concern over Europe’s declining share of global emissions while advocating for free trade principles. He highlighted the need for a careful balance between rapid energy transition and economic competitiveness. Mitsotakis stressed, “We need to ask hard questions about a path that goes very fast at the expense of our competitiveness, and a path that goes somewhat slower but allows our industry to adapt and to thrive. It is our responsibility to weigh these trade-offs carefully.” Moreover, despite improvements in renewable power generation, Greece has experienced rising electricity prices due to market distortions within the European power market. Mitsotakis has called upon the European Union for a swift response to rectify these issues.
The issue of climate change has emerged as a paramount concern globally, with nations striving to mitigate its impacts through energy transitions. Europe plays a pivotal role in leading the discourse on climate action, emphasizing sustainable practices aimed at achieving net-zero emissions. However, countries like Greece, which are battling the immediate effects of climate change, underline the importance of resilience and preparedness against natural disasters as part of their climate policy framework. This dual focus on both long-term goals and immediate needs is critical to ensure social and economic stability amidst climate challenges.
In summary, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece advocates for increased resources to address the pressing impacts of climate change at the UN COP29 climate summit in Baku. While acknowledging Europe’s leadership in the green transition, he emphasizes the urgent need for measures that support communities affected by climate disasters and calls for a balanced approach that safeguards economic competitiveness. Mitsotakis’ remarks reflect the complex realities faced by nations striving to reconcile rapid energy transformation with existing vulnerabilities.
Original Source: www.swissinfo.ch
