President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) Wesley Simina, made a powerful statement at the Summit of the Future, insisting that “the time for action is now.”
His remarks came as the global community grapples with escalating climate challenges that disproportionately affect small island nations.
“Climate change poses an existential threat to our environmental stability, peace, and security,” Simina declared, emphasising the urgent need for the world to recognise the severe impact of rising sea levels and extreme weather on communities in Micronesia.
He stressed that “the profound link between climate resilience and the survival of our people” must not be overlooked.
“As rising sea levels and extreme weather events jeopardise our livelihoods and displace communities, it is imperative that we recognise the profound link between climate resilience and the survival of our people. We must foster international cooperation to address this climate crisis with urgency.
“Our planet is at a critical point of no return. So, the time for action is now. We possess the tools, knowledge, and innovative spirit to combat climate change and protect our ecosystems. The Pact for the Future serves as a call to action, urging us to commit to ambitious climate targets and investments in renewable energy. Together, we must strive to create a green economy that prioritises both our planet and our people,” he said.
At the summit, Simina reiterated Micronesia’s commitment to advocating for immediate reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
“We also champion initiatives to eliminate fossil fuel subsidies and transition away from the use of fossil fuels. This includes addressing non-CO2 emissions and short-lived climate pollutants in order to effectively combat the climate crisis, as these pollutants significantly contribute to global warming in the near term. By prioritising their reduction, we can achieve more immediate temperature control, safeguard vulnerable communities, and enhance our efforts toward long-term climate goals,” he explained.
Simina also voiced concern regarding the recently adopted Pact for the Future, urging the United Nations to enforce robust commitments that prioritise the transition from coal, oil, and gas across all sectors.
“While we embrace the Pact for the Future, we do have some concerns about the text as adopted. We would like to suggest that the United Nations ensures that the implementation of the Pact includes robust and lasting commitments to transition away from coal, oil, and gas in all sectors of society, aligning with the 1.5°C limit in the Paris Agreement.
“Let us empower the next generation with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
“Let us forge partnerships and establish frameworks for our collective resilience,” he said.
His insistence on collaborative efforts aimed at building a green economy reflects a broader call for unity as the planet faces critical challenges.
“Our livelihoods stand on the brink of devastation.” The call to rally behind the Pact was not just a statement; it was a plea for survival.
“The Pact for the Future is crucial for the survival of the livelihoods and wellbeing of humanity, especially in Small Island Developing States like mine. We continue to face extreme challenges as a consequence of climate change, and our livelihoods stand on the brink of devastation. Therefore, I appeal to all of you to rally behind this Pact so that we can safeguard the future of our people and our world,” President Simina said.
This story was written by Pita Ligaiula, originally published at PACNEWS on 24 September 2024.
