Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Energy and Sustainability Affairs, represented the UAE at the United Nations Critical Energy Transition Minerals (CETM) Panel held in Copenhagen.
The event brought together government representatives, organisations and experts to discuss the crucial role of critical minerals in the global transition to renewable energy.
The panel focused on developing guidance to ensure a transition of critical minerals which is essential for clean energy technologies such as wind turbines, solar panels, electric vehicles, and battery storage.
Balalaa emphasised the significance of these minerals in advancing green technologies and discussed various aspects related to trade, investment, and climate resilience.
He highlighted the need for robust economic opportunities and support for vulnerable communities affected by climate change, stressing the importance of fostering dialogue, enhancing collaboration, and ensuring accessible finance to prevent delays in the energy transition.
He also addressed socio-economic, climate, and environmental challenges related to the extraction and use of critical minerals.
Balalaa called for a clear roadmap for the sustainable use of these minerals and advocated for bold, pragmatic solutions that align with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Looking ahead, Abdulla previewed the UAE’s continued leadership in climate action, including its role in co-hosting the 2026 UN Water Conference with Senegal following on from the UAE’s successful hosting of COP28.