PRE-COP TO HEAR FROM
GOVERNOR JERRY BROWN VIA VIDEO MESSAGE
Governor of California, Jerry Brown, will speak to preCOP conference delegates at the Sheraton Fiji Resort, Nadi today via a video message.
Mr Brown, who was named Special Advisor for States and Regions Under 2 Coalition and US Climate Alliance ahead of this year’s COP23 by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama, was invited by Mr Bainimarama.
But it is understood that he could not make it to Fiji because of the devastating fire that has killed 40 people so far in Santa Rosa, California. The wildfires have burned more than 220,000 acres.
He is expected to travel to Bonn, Germany with two other state governors, to support the Fijian presidency of COP23 led by Mr Bainimarama.
Mr Bainimarama said in June: “We look forward to Governor Brown’s help in mobilising like-minded leaders from around the world in support of our goal to achieve concrete outcomes at COP23.” Governor Brown’s message will help boost Fiji’s preparation for COP23 and rally countries to support Fiji.
After his video message, Hakima El Haite, Morocco’s high-level climate champion, will deliver his video message.
Mr Bainimarama will give the keynote address.
Former Kiribati President and member of climate change leader’s network, Anote Tong is expected to deliver a statement along side other leaders from island states in the Pacific.
Sessions will include examining best practices, proposed innovations and key processes underway through the COP 23 presidency until the end of 2018.
A panel will include Minister for Economy and Attorney-General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum and Green Climate Fund Chief Executive Officer, Howard Bamsey. Edited by Inoke Ravouvou