Prime Minister Browne Engages Loss and Damage Fund Executive Director on Climate Financing at COP31

The Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, the Right Honourable Gaston Browne, has held discussions with Mr. Ibrahima Cheikh Diong, Executive Director of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD), on the margins of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye.

The discussions focused on strengthening access to loss and damage financing for climate-vulnerable countries, particularly Small Island Developing States (SIDS), and exploring opportunities for Antigua and Barbuda to benefit from the Fund’s resources to address the growing impacts of climate change.

Prime Minister Browne highlighted the importance of keeping the 1.5°C temperature goal within reach through stronger global emissions-reduction commitments, accelerated mitigation measures, greater investment in climate adaptation and resilience, and a meaningful transition away from dependence on fossil fuels.

The engagement also provided an opportunity to discuss potential areas of support and proposals that could be advanced through the Fund, with particular attention to financing practical interventions that protect vulnerable communities, strengthen national infrastructure and address the economic and social consequences of climate-related disasters.

Prime Minister Browne reiterated the importance of ensuring that climate financing mechanisms are accessible, responsive and adequately resourced, particularly for small island nations that contribute minimally to global emissions but face disproportionate exposure to climate impacts.