Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca addressed the General Debate of the United National General Assembly for the first time on Saturday.
In his 21 minute speech, Fonseca touched on a number of key topics - and advocated strongly for climate justice for The Alliance of Small Island States - known as AOSIS. He said industrialized nations carry the blame for climate change while small states bear the burden:
Francis Fonseca, Foreign Minister
"The genesis of this crisis lies with the industrialized nations. Its perpetuation and acceleration rests with the wider membership of the Group of 20 (G20). Currently, the G20 accounts for some 80 percent of global emissions. AOSIS Members contribute less than one percent of global emissions."
"This is a tale of two worlds; but we only have one planet to share. Our people have gone beyond their duty to protect and preserve our environment, yet some are being forced to relocate from their homelands. To this, we reiterate that no matter the physical changes that climate change may bring to our territory, our sovereignty and our right to self-determination remain intact."
