Syrian president calls for green investment in COP30 climate speech

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa has appealed for international investment in renewable energy and sustainable urban development during his address at the UN Climate Conference (COP30) in Belem, Brazil. In his Thursday speech, Sharaa emphasized Syria's commitment to reconstruction efforts aligned with global climate objectives while acknowledging the severe environmental challenges exacerbated by years of conflict and displacement.

Environmental Challenges and Reconstruction Vision

The Syrian president detailed how his country has faced "complex environmental challenges in recent years," including its worst drought in over six decades, which he described as evidence of peak climate change impacts. Sharaa outlined an "ambitious vision" for Syria's recovery, stating "we don't seek to revive our cities merely by rebuilding them, but by restoring our connection to the land and establishing integrated systems" that respect environmental principles.

Investment Appeal and Religious References

Sharaa directly invited international investors to participate in Syria's renewable energy sector, sustainable green cities, and state-guaranteed pioneering projects. He reinforced his environmental message with religious references, quoting from the Quran that "We created from water every living thing" and citing Prophet Muhammad's teachings on conservation, including prohibitions against cutting trees even during wartime and instructions to conserve water regardless of availability.

Diplomatic Engagement and Historical Significance

The Syrian leader's participation marks the first attendance by a Syrian president at a UN climate conference since the series began in 1995. During the summit, Sharaa met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani, and World Bank Group President Ajay Banga. Following the climate conference, the Syrian president is scheduled to travel to Washington for meetings with US President Donald Trump.