Date : 2 December 2023, 10.a.m.
Venue: Sri Lanka Pavilion
The launching event on Climate Justice Forum held at the Sri Lanka Pavilion, COP 28, Dubai U.A.E. on 2nd December 2023 under the distinguished patronage of the H.E. Ranil Wickremesinghe the President of Sri Lanka. Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Environment delivered the welcome and opening remarks. Ms. Vositha Wijenayake delivered the key note speech. Ms Inger Anderson, Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme also address the gathering Expressing gratitude for the recognition and support extended to the Climate Justice initiative, it is crucial to acknowledge the inherent injustices deeply embedded in climate change.
Hon. Dr. Keheliya Rambukwella, Minister of Environment, emphasized the importance of climate justice forum.
Hon. Ali Sabry, Minister of Foreign Affairs mentioned that, this collaborative spirit extends into foreign policy, fostering partnerships with like-minded countries to pave the way for a sustainable future.
Hon. Dr. Jane Aceng, Minister of Health, Uganda said that CJF advocates for a transformative shift from rhetoric to concrete actions on the ground. Its significance is underscored, particularly for those residing in the tropical belt, emphasizing a collaborative and cooperative approach.
Mr. Ranil Wickremesignhe, HE President emphasized the interconnected nature of the global debt issue with concerns about loss and damage. There is a clear call for universal in tackling these interlinked global challenges. The initial strategy involves seeking support from countries for the CJF. Further, he mentioned that Sri Lanka is going to submit a resolution on climate justice for upcoming event on UNEA 6. He urgely seek the support extended from the countries and UNEP to pass the resolution at UNEA 6.
Hon. Mohamed Nasheed, Former Maldivian President and CVF Thematic Ambassador , Hon. Ali Sabry, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Kanchana Wijesresekara, Minister of Power and Energy, Mr. Ajith Mannaperuma, Member of Parliament, Hon. Patali Champika Ranawaka, Mr. Ruwan Wijewardene, Senior Advisor to the President, Dr. Ananda Mallawathanthri, Advisor to the president and foreign and Sri Lankan Delegates participated this Occasion.