TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA, 外交部) announced Tuesday (Oct. 29) that the nation has not received an invitation to the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), a decision they believe will be detrimental to global efforts. COP29 is set to begin on Nov. 11 in Azerbaijan, yet Taiwan has not yet been included in the attendee list.
Jeff Y.J. Liu (劉永健), a MOFA spokesperson, emphasized that climate change impacts the globe, and political factors should not exclude Taiwan from the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement. Liu urged countries to support Taiwan's participation in COP29, highlighting Taiwan's proactive international responsibility.
In an interview with Nikkei Asia, Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明) stated that Taiwan plans to use its technological expertise to assist diplomatic allies and like-minded nations in enhancing climate resilience. Liu noted that Taiwan excels in climate change mitigation and adaptation, with MOFA promoting diplomacy through new energy and carbon rights cooperation.
Liu claimed that MOFA and the Ministry of Environment (MOENV, 環境部) will form an inter-ministerial task force to develop specific strategies. This initiative aims to reinforce Taiwan's commitment to global climate efforts and advocate for its inclusion in future international environmental platforms.