Leaked documents obtained by the BBC revealed the UAE’s intention to use the COP28 climate summit to pursue oil and gas deals with other countries. As president of the upcoming climate conference, Dr. Sultan al-Jaber also serves as the CEO of UAE’s oil company, Adnoc, and renewable energy company, Masdar. Despite the mandate of encouraging countries to set ambitious climate goals, al-Jaber planned to discuss numerous commercial interests regarding oil and gas with over a dozen nations ahead of the November 30 conference.
The documents contain meeting objectives and information on officials al-Jaber would address, incorporating talking points from Adnoc and Masdar. These points notably focused on Adnoc’s pursuit of a new petrochemical company in Brazil, liquified natural gas dealings with China, and support for natural resource development in Venezuela and Saudi Arabia. Masdar’s provision outlined plans to invest in the United States.
While it remains unclear how many discussions involved these talking points, the U.S. climate envoy reportedly did not entertain the commercial activities. The revealed business-driven approach comes into question, as COP28 presidents are expected to uphold principles of impartiality and fairness according to U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change standards.
Expressions of concern arose from Congress members, European Parliament representatives, and climate activist Al Gore. Critics argue that the appointment of an oil company executive to lead COP28 may severely hinder the summit’s real progress. Gore expressed dismay at the leverage of international climate talks for more oil and gas support when the global necessity is to phase out fossil fuels.
