Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago of Brazil pledges to prioritize scientific respect in climate discussions at the U.N. General Assembly. He stresses the importance of global cooperation, especially as Brazil prepares to host COP30. Corrêa do Lago acknowledges challenges posed by the absence of U.S. support for the Paris Agreement but remains committed to advocating for international climate action and financial investment.
In his inaugural address to the U.N. General Assembly, Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago of Brazil emphasized the necessity of adhering to scientific principles in tackling climate change. As Brazil prepares to host the COP30 climate summit in Belém this November, he articulated a strong belief that sustainable collaboration among all nations is essential for future progress, noting, “Brazil has the firm conviction that there is no future progress for humanity without deep, rapid and sustained cooperation among all countries.”
Despite the challenges posed by increased extreme weather events and their remedies, Corrêa do Lago remains optimistic about international climate action. His focus is on encouraging cooperation from both countries and the private sector in light of the United States’ intent to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. He stated, “Time, he says, is of the essence.”
With a distinguished background as a longtime diplomat, Corrêa do Lago carries a family legacy in international relations. His grandfather, Oswaldo Aranha, was notably a Brazilian ambassador to the U.S. and presided over the U.N. General Assembly during its 1947 resolution advocating the partition of Palestine into Jewish and Arab states.
Corrêa do Lago acknowledged the legacy of his grandfather as an inspiring force, expressing the weight of responsibility he feels as he navigates his own diplomatic journey. In conversation, he pointed out that climate issues still resonate globally, stating, “the fact is that we’re living in a moment in which there is some questioning of the issues regarding climate but there is no doubt that climate has attained a very high level of attention in the international public.”
Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago reaffirms Brazil’s commitment to climate science and international cooperation as he steps into a pivotal role at COP30, particularly amid the U.S.’s retreat from the Paris Agreement. He emphasizes the urgency for all nations and sectors to contribute financially and strategically to meet climate targets, particularly the critical limit of 1.5 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, he reflects on the familial diplomatic legacy he upholds, motivating him in his current endeavors.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
