Brazil’s Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago emphasized that respect for science is crucial for addressing climate change during his inaugural address to the U.N. General Assembly. He affirmed the necessity for international cooperation and financial commitment, especially in light of the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. Corrêa do Lago reflects on his grandfather’s significant diplomatic legacy while addressing the urgency of climate action.
At the United Nations, Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago of Brazil addressed the U.N. General Assembly for his inaugural climate talks as president, emphasizing that respect for science will be a cornerstone of his leadership. He asserted, “Brazil has the firm conviction that there is no future progress for humanity without deep, rapid and sustained cooperation among all countries,” with Brazil set to host COP30 in Belém this November.
He acknowledged challenges such as extreme weather events and the financial burdens associated with climate-related disasters. The situation is further complicated by the United States, a leading greenhouse gas emitter, moving towards withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to under 2 degrees Celsius, with an aspiration of 1.5 degrees.
Despite these setbacks, Corrêa do Lago remains optimistic about global climate action, intending to rally other nations and the private sector to fill the void left by the U.S. He noted the urgency of the situation, stating, “If we believe in science and climate urgency, we cannot wait four years” for a new U.S. administration.
A seasoned diplomat, Corrêa do Lago carries a family legacy in international affairs. His grandfather Oswaldo Aranha served as the Brazilian ambassador to the U.S. and as president of the U.N. General Assembly in 1947, where he played a pivotal role in the establishment of Israel. Today, Corrêa do Lago reflects on this legacy with immense pride and responsibility, acknowledging the significant impact of his grandfather’s diplomatic work.
In recent statements, Corrêa do Lago discussed the complexities of achieving progress at COP30 amidst global distractions. He reiterated the enduring importance of climate issues in public discourse and highlighted the need for a concerted financial effort from all nations. He remarked, “There must be money from all sources,” emphasizing the necessity of integrating climate concerns into the global economy.
As the discourse around climate urgency continues, he stressed the need to limit temperature increases to 1.5 degrees Celsius to prevent catastrophic events. Corrêa do Lago expressed an awareness of the weight of familial history, stating that though he did not meet his grandfather, his legacy continues to influence Brazilian history and his own diplomatic path. He concluded, “I don’t know if I carry on, but I’ll try.”
Ambassador André Aranha Corrêa do Lago’s inaugural address highlights Brazil’s commitment to climate action, emphasizing the critical role of scientific respect and international cooperation. Despite challenges from climate impacts and geopolitical dynamics, he remains hopeful that progress can be achieved through collaborative efforts, while acknowledging the profound legacy of his grandfather in diplomacy. His remarks at the U.N. underscore both a commitment to immediate action and the importance of integrating climate concerns into the broader economic agenda.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
