BAKU, Nov 13:  Representing His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah delivered Kuwait's official address at the World Climate Action Summit (COP29) held in Baku, Azerbaijan. Below is the full text of his speech:

"In the name of God, the most gracious, the most merciful,

His Excellency President Ilham Heydar Oglu Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan,

His Excellency Mr. Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations,

Distinguished attendees,

May the peace, blessings, and mercy of God be upon you.

At the outset, I am honored to convey to you the greetings of His Highness the Amir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (may God protect him), and his best wishes for the success of this important conference. I also extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the Republic of Azerbaijan for its warm hospitality and excellent organization of this event.

Mr. President,

Climate change has undoubtedly become a pressing global concern, posing a significant threat to many countries, including Kuwait. We are already witnessing its effects in the form of rising temperatures, dust storms, and reduced rainfall, all of which have begun to impact daily life.

In response, Kuwait is committed to promoting environmental sustainability and fulfilling its obligations under the Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Kyoto Protocol through a range of national projects and measures. In line with the principles of the Paris Agreement, Kuwait supports the initiatives of "Call for a Truce" and "Water for Climate Change."

Kuwait also urges developed countries to meet their commitments under the Framework Convention by providing essential financial, technical, and capacity-building support to developing and least developed countries. This assistance is vital to help these nations resist and adapt to the effects of climate change and to implement their nationally determined contributions.

Mr. President,

Through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, Kuwait has consistently supported many developing nations, delivering over 1,330 loans and grants worth USD 23 billion to finance projects aimed at mitigating climate impacts.

Kuwait is dedicated to aligning its economic growth with low-carbon development and climate resilience by 2050, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2060. Key initiatives include advancing clean energy projects, aiming for a 50% share of solar energy in total electricity production by 2050, adopting low-carbon technologies, and developing sustainable energy investments. Kuwait also aspires to achieve an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, hoping that our collective efforts will lead to a prosperous future for all.

May the peace, mercy, and blessings of God be upon you." (KUNA)