KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 2 — Asean and the European Union (EU) should work together to address the challenges and opportunities in clean energy, both bilaterally and within the framework of Asean-EU cooperation, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
Speaking at the 3rd EU-Indo Pacific Ministerial Forum in Brussels, Belgium today, he said that in order to ensure a just transition, industrialised nations must provide developing nations with extensive support, especially in financing, incentives, technology, and infrastructure.
"Energy transition should be just, inclusive, and equitable, taking into account the developmental needs of different countries.
"The Common But Differentiated Responsibilities, and Respective Capabilities, is a fundamental principle of the Paris Agreement which must be upheld," Mohamad said during the 'The Green Transition: Partnering for a Sustainable Future' roundtable session.
His statement was made available to the media by the Foreign Ministry.
Mohamad emphasised that Malaysia will continue to pivot on practical solutions which drive progress, balancing climate ambition, sustainability, and economic growth as it addresses the energy trilemma.
"We believe the way forward demands a progressive cooperation and collaboration model," he said.
Trade is an important lever for accelerating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for developing countries, as erecting barriers to trade can erode multilateralism and cooperation, as well as hamper the growth of developing nations.
The 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) in Dubai last year yielded some commendable outcomes and called for the urgent operationalisation of the Loss and Damage (L&D) Fund for climate change.
"Nevertheless, energy transition is expensive and cannot be done overnight. Those who can do more should. We call on developed countries, including the EU members, to do more," Mohamad said.
Nearly 200 countries have collectively pledged over US$400 million (RM1.88 billion) to establish the L&D fund to support vulnerable countries to cope with climate disaster during COP28.
— Bernama
