COP28 ushers in a new era of trade-climate synergy: AfCFTA’s Sectary-General

COP28 ushers in a new era of trade-climate synergy: AfCFTA’s Sectary-General

DUBAI – Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), stated that COP28 is the strongest edition in terms of representing the global trade sector.

He emphasised that this is the first time the sector has been strongly represented at COP, acknowledging the importance of inclusivity in addressing climate challenges and maintaining trade that supports climate goals.

Speaking to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) on the sidelines of COP28's fifth day, he said, "For the first time, there's an appreciation for the link between trade, climate change, and the need for environmentally friendly trade." He stressed the importance of integrating renewable energy into the trading system.

Mene affirmed that this is a positive message for everyone as discussions about transitioning the global economy to sustainability gather pace in the coming decades. He pointed out that trade, alongside other sectors, can positively contribute to strengthening sustainability and environmental protection, highlighting various approaches to achieve this.

He mentioned that shipping and transportation can become sustainable and environmentally friendly by using either sustainable fuels or adopting electric vehicles. He noted that several African countries possess rich lithium resources, a key component in electric vehicle batteries.

Regarding the trade sector's contribution to