Antalya:Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali on Wednesday called on major emitters to implement deeper emissions cuts while committing to prioritize early intervention and faster climate funding at next year’s UN climate summit, which Ethiopia will host.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Abiy addressed world leaders at the COP31 summit in Antalya, Türkiye, highlighting the financial strain climate damage imposes on resources needed for education, healthcare, and opportunities for young people. He emphasized Ethiopia’s vulnerability to climate change due to recurring droughts and floods, high poverty levels, rapid population growth, and reliance on rain-fed agriculture.

Abiy noted Ethiopia’s efforts to reduce emissions, such as banning imports of gasoline- and diesel-powered cars in favor of electric vehicles. This restriction, introduced in 2024, aims to cut dependence on imported fuel and promote electric transportation.

Abiy also pointed to Ethiopia’s responsibility to act in addressing climate change, urging nations with greater responsibility to lead with significant emission reductions this decade. Looking forward to COP32, set to be hosted by Ethiopia in 2027, he stated the government’s focus on early action to safeguard vulnerable communities from climate-related disasters.

Ethiopia secured the right to host COP32, overcoming a competing bid from Nigeria, with the conference scheduled to be held in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, which also hosts the African Union's headquarters.