During the opening days of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), ESCWA underscored the critical role of regional cooperation, technological innovation and sustainable financing in accelerating the energy transition and unlocking new economic opportunities across the Arab region.
Participating in several high-level events, ESCWA Executive Secretary Rania Al-Mashat emphasized that the energy transition represented not only a climate imperative, but also an opportunity to drive economic diversification, strengthen industrial competitiveness and create jobs.
At an event organized by the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization (GEIDCO), Al-Mashat highlighted the Arab region's potential to emerge as a regional hub for clean energy, electricity trade, green hydrogen and low-carbon industries. She stressed the importance of regional electricity interconnection, digital innovation and international partnerships in translating climate commitments into tangible outcomes.
During a regional dialogue jointly organized by ESCWA and the Oman Net Zero Center, Al-Mashat identified connectivity, capabilities and policy convergence as three key priorities for harnessing critical energy transition minerals and strengthening regional value chains.
She also participated in a panel organized by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), where she underscored the importance of aligning climate finance with nationally owned reforms and development priorities. She highlighted the role of policy-based finance, blended finance and risk-sharing instruments in mobilizing investment while preserving fiscal sustainability.
Across these engagements, ESCWA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting member States in advancing the energy transition through regional integration, innovative financing and sustainable industrial development.
