Statement of Trade and Industry Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual for Coalition of Trade Ministers on Climate Second Ministerial Meeting | Department of Trade and Industry Philippines

25 February 2024 | Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

WTO Director General Ngozi, Co-Leads, Ministers and Colleagues, a pleasant afternoon. First and foremost, I would like to commend the group for its strong commitment to help address climate change within the ambit of the Coalition. It has been a year since our launch, and I agree that there is much work to be done. The Philippines broadly supports the endorsement of the Coalition’s Framework of Voluntary Actions.

It is imperative that we continue our collective efforts to foster joint and inclusive dialogues on trade, climate and sustainable development. These collaborations can pave the way for innovative solutions that can help address the critical issues of our time.

We believe that the work of the Coalition complements the existing work at the WTO on trade and sustainable development. We would welcome discussions and thematic sessions on the transfer of goods and technologies that support climate adaptation and mitigation.

As one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, the Philippines applauds the Coalition’s commitment to support developing and least developed countries, and small vulnerable economies in their trade and climate strategies. We must ensure a fair and just transition towards achieving our climate goals so that no one will be left behind.

The Philippines will continue its engagement in the Coalition and will work with other members to implement the Coalition’s priorities.

Thank you. ♦

Date of release: 25 February 2024