The second Annual National Climate Summit kicked off today at the APEC Haus, Port Moresby. During the opening remarks of the second Annual Climate Summit, Climate Change and Environment Minister, Simon Kilepa, highlighted the importance of Climate Justice and Social Inclusion as per the Theme of the second annual climate summit. The theme of this summit, "Climate Justice and Social Inclusion," underscores the importance of our times. Minister Kilepa stated that under the Marape-Roso government, climate change remains a priority development agenda since our country remains one of the vulnerable countries in the world in the face of climate change. “That is why Summit as this is critical for every stakeholder to come together, identify what major challenges are faced and what critical actions are needed, how can these actions be implemented and who can implement these actions as a country going forward.” He added in his opening remarks that the National Climate Change Summit is a key step in shaping our nation's destiny and contributing to the global struggle against the defining crisis of our time. “I stand before you all today with a profound sense of purpose and urgency as we gather here for the Second Annual National Climate Summit, and I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for your presence at this significant event.” “Together, we embark on a journey that holds the promise of shaping our nation's destiny and contributing to the global fight against the defining crisis of our time.” “The theme of this summit, Climate Justice and Social Inclusion reminds us that the fight against climate change is not only about reducing the footprints of carbon emissions or protecting ecosystems; it is fundamentally about ensuring that the burdens and benefits of this fight are equitably distributed.” “It's about safeguarding the rights, dignity, and well-being of every citizen, regardless of their background or circumstance.” He further emphasised that Climate change knows no boundaries; it respects no one's socio-economic status, however its impacts are felt most acutely by those who are least responsible for its causes. Vulnerable communities, like PNG’s own Cataract islands in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville are marginalized and are bearing the brunt of extreme weather events such as sea level rise and disrupted livelihoods. These vulnerable deserve not only sympathy but unwavering commitment to climate justice he added. “Today, we come together to commit ourselves to this very cause, justice in the face of climate change thus we must recognize that climate action is at its core, an act of social justice and It's a promise to our children, our grandchildren, and all future generations that we will not let their futures be stolen by our indecisions.” “As a nation, we have made significant strides on this path, we've taken steps to reduce our carbon footprint, to protect our forests and oceans, and to promote renewable energy transition, but we must do more, much more.” He stressed that there is a need to ensure that climate policies do not exacerbate existing inequalities, but all should rather work to alleviate them and the transition to a greener economy must provide opportunities for decent work, job security, and improved living standards for all citizens. “All must also recognize the vital role of our local people, women, and marginalized communities in climate action because their traditional knowledge, resilience, and commitment to environmental stewardship are invaluable assets in our collective fight against climate change.” “The journey towards climate justice and social inclusion comes with its challenges as well and it requires efforts and collaboration across sectors and smart innovative solutions.” “It also demands that no one is left behind and that priority is given to the most vulnerable.” “I call upon each of you to use this summit as a platform for meaningful dialogue, shared knowledge, and concrete commitments and let us not only talk about climate justice and social inclusion but act upon them.” “Let us commit to leaving a legacy of a greener, fairer, and more just world for generations to come and may our deliberations at this summit drive us towards a future where climate justice prevails, and social inclusion is the norm.”