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Rwanda to push for strong global agreement at Paris climate conference

Xinhua, November 25, 2015 Adjust font size:

Rwanda has added its voice to countries calling for broader and more concrete action ahead of next week's climate change talks in Paris.

The east African country has called on developed nations to do more to reduce emissions as well as ensure better financing for climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts in developing nations.

In Paris, Rwanda will join other climate vulnerable countries to advocate for increased mitigation ambitions to limit global average temperature increases to below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

As a country with a variable climate and mountainous terrain, Rwanda is at risk of increases extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.

Therefore, the country will also push for an agreement that includes provisions of financial and technological support to enable climate-vulnerable countries to deal with the loss and damage associated with climate change.

A government statement Tuesday said Rwanda hopes that the new global agreement to be adopted at the Paris climate summit will be binding on all nations.

"Rwanda will go to Paris calling for greater action on climate change and for more and better financing for vulnerable nations. We will also share our experience in implementing innovative environment conservation programs and work with international partners to mobilize resources," Rwanda's minister of Natural Resources, Dr Vincent Biruta said.

He noted that the ultimate objective is to reach an agreement that prevents the worst impacts of climate change and supports countries like Rwanda to respond and adapt to a warming planet.

"As a party to the UN convention on climate change, our expectation from Paris is to come up with a new agreement that enables all countries to combat climate change effectively and that accelerates the transition towards low-carbon societies and economies," Biruta added.

Rwanda has established a national fund for the environment and climate change that finances climate resilience projects and leverages private sector investments across the country.

The work of the fund, the largest of its kind in Africa, will be presented at climate forums in Paris to share experiences and attract additional financing needed for local action. Endit