Leader of the Opposition Manasseh Sogavare has backed international cooperation on climate change but questioned the Government’s decision to pledge US$400,000 to the Green Climate Fund’s next replenishment while the country faces urgent domestic climate adaptation needs.
Sogavare made the statement in response to Prime Minister Mathew Wale’s pledge at COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye this week.
He said international climate cooperation must consider the country’s national circumstances, limited fiscal capacity and the principle of climate justice.
“The GREAT Coalition’s first responsibility must be its people,” Sogavare said.
He said Solomon Islands is a Small Island Developing State and a Least Developed Country located in one of the world’s most vulnerable climate hotspots.
“We are among the countries least responsible for global greenhouse gas emissions, yet face some of the most severe consequences.”
Sogavare said while the Green Climate Fund plays a vital role in helping vulnerable developing countries tackle climate change, the Government must explain the fiscal justification for its US$400,000 pledge when the Solomon Islands National Adaptation Plan remains under-resourced.
He said the country urgently needs investment in coastal protection, freshwater security, climate-resilient infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture and disaster preparedness.
He also pointed to Langalanga, Ontong Java, Sikaiana and the Reef Islands, which are identified among communities with limited opportunities to adapt to climate change.
“The threat is not theoretical. It is already affecting people’s homes, livelihoods and security,” he said.
“Our vulnerable communities need adaptation financing, protection and economic resilience now.”
Sogavare also questioned the Government’s existing climate-financing commitments, pointing to the US$70 million concessional loan associated with the Tina River Hydropower Project ,which has a repayment period of 40 years, and a US$16 million Green Climate Fund grant.
“How does the Prime Minister reconcile this additional US$400,000 pledge with the need to manage Solomon Islands’ existing long-term climate financing obligations responsibly?” he questioned.
Sogavare said the Opposition supports “meaningful international climate cooperation based on fairness, accountability and the national interest.”
“Climate justice must begin at home. Our first responsibility is to protect our own people, our islands and our future,” the opposition leader added.
He said the GREAT Coalition must prioritise the pressing needs of vulnerable communities.
