Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has cautioned against using climate change as a pretext for imposing unilateral trade restrictions. He emphasized the need for developed countries to fulfill their international commitments on climate finance. Tebboune made these remarks in a speech to the 31st Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31) in Antalya, Turkey. He stressed that a fair energy transition must consider countries' different development paths and national circumstances.
Tebboune highlighted Algeria's commitment to addressing climate change, citing its vulnerability to drought, desertification, and forest fires due to its location in arid and semi-arid regions. He noted that the country's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) includes an unconditional target to reduce emissions by 14% by 2035, using only domestic resources. Algeria is also willing to increase this target to 31% with international support.
The Algerian president emphasized that his country has started translating its climate commitments into concrete programs and projects. These include the launch of the first phase of a renewable energy development program, aiming to reach a production capacity of 15,000 megawatts by 2035. Algeria has also adopted a national hydrogen strategy, promoted energy efficiency, and developed public transportation.
Tebboune stressed that climate action should not conflict with economic development and job creation, as long as the transition is gradual and supported by international cooperation, as outlined in the Paris Agreement. He also highlighted the importance of adapting to climate change, particularly in areas such as water and food security. Algeria is working to enhance its water security through seawater desalination and wastewater reuse projects.
The president emphasized that international support, particularly in financing, technology transfer, and capacity building, is crucial for developing countries to implement their climate commitments and enhance their ambitions. He warned that using climate change as a pretext for trade restrictions would undermine the global effort to address this challenge.
Tebboune reiterated Algeria's commitment to contributing to the global effort to combat climate change, in line with its responsibilities to future generations. He called for enhanced international cooperation based on justice, fairness, and respect for commitments. The Algerian president's message reflects the country's determination to address climate change while promoting sustainable development.
The conference in Antalya brings together world leaders to discuss climate change and its implications. Algeria's participation in COP31 reflects its commitment to international cooperation on climate issues. The country's announcements on climate commitments and warnings against using climate change as a pretext for trade restrictions are expected to contribute to the global discussion on this critical issue.
Key points
- Algeria aims to reduce emissions by 14% by 2035, and potentially 31% with international support.
- The country has launched a renewable energy development program targeting 15,000 megawatts by 2035.
- Algeria emphasizes the need for international support in financing, technology transfer, and capacity building to implement its climate commitments.
