Pope calls on leaders at COP28 to turn corner on climate

DUBAI: Pope Francis called on leaders at the COP28 climate summit in Dubai Saturday to step up and achieve a “breakthrough” on saving the planet.

“May this COP prove to be a turning point, demonstrating a clear and tangible political will that can lead to a decisive acceleration of ecological transition,” he said. He also said the world should move to end using fossil fuels.

The speech by Francis, was read by the Vatican’s second highest officer, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin.

The transition must be “efficient, obligatory and readily monitored” and apply to “four sectors: energy efficiency; renewable sources; the elimination of fossil fuels; and education in lifestyles that are less dependent on the latter,” he said.