US climate envoy Kerry hails UAE for Net Zero 2050 drive

Thanks UAE for using Expo to draw world’s focus to climate crisis

John Kerry, the US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, led congratulations from world leaders and environmental policymakers to the UAE for its Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative, calling it an “incredibly important” step in combating climate change.

The pledge was announced at Expo 2020 on Thursday by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Shaikh Mohammad said: “We are committed to seize the opportunity to cement our leadership on climate change within our region and take this key economic opportunity to drive development, growth and new jobs as we pivot our economy and nation to net zero.”

John Kerry said: “My heartfelt congratulations and thanks to the UAE for its incredibly important Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative. As the UAE prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary as a nation later this year, this mid-century net-zero goal sets out a very powerful vision for your next exciting decades ahead.”.

Boris Johnson, the UK Prime Minister also welcomed the announcement. He tweeted: “This is a significant step in tackling climate change, and I hope more countries commit to net zero ahead of COP26.”

Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General tweeted: “I welcome the announcement by the UAE of its intention to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.”