Mary Robinson in tense exchange with Cop28 president over fossil fuels

The president of Cop28 has said there is no science behind claims that phasing out fossil fuels will help stave off global warming.

Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber claimed there was no proof showing a phase-out of fossil fuels is needed to restrict global heating to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

He told former Irish president Mary Robinson that the phase-out of fossil fuels would not allow sustainable development “unless you want to take the world back into caves”.

The video meeting, which took place in the weeks before this year's UN climate summit, has been published by The Guardian and the Centre for Climate Reporting.

Robinson said: “We’re in an absolute crisis that is hurting women and children more than anyone … and it’s because we have not yet committed to phasing out fossil fuel. That is the one decision that Cop28 can take and in many ways, because you’re head of Adnoc [Abu Dhabi National Oil Company], you could actually take it with more credibility.”

Al Jaber said: “I accepted to come to this meeting to have a sober and mature conversation. I’m not in any way g up to any discussion that is alarmist. There is no science out there, or no scenario out there, that says that the phase-out of fossil fuel is what’s going to achieve 1.5 degrees.”

Robinson challenged him further, saying: “I read that your company is investing in a lot more fossil fuel in the future.” Al Jaber responded: “You’re reading your own media, which is biased and wrong. I am telling you I am the man in charge.”

Al Jaber then said: “Please help me, show me the roap for a phase-out of fossil fuel that will allow for sustainable socioeconomic development, unless you want to take the world back into caves.”

“I don’t think [you] will be able to help solve the climate problem by pointing fingers or contributing to the polarisation and the divide that is already happening in the world. Show me the solutions. Stop the pointing of fingers. Stop it,” Al Jaber said.

Al Jaber's selection to lead Cop28, which runs until December 12th, has drawn criticism from climate activists, who are concerned he will be unable to take the neutral stance required of a Cop president.

He holds a number of senior government and business positions in the United Arab Emirates, including chief executive of state oil giant Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc). He is also a cabinet minister. The UAE is a major crude producer and a leading member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.

Al Jaber has presented himself as a mediator between both sides of the fossil fuel divide, with a healthy desire to include the oil and gas industry in the climate debate.

The BBC and the Centre for Climate Reporting revealed at the beginning of the summit last week that leaked briefing documents prepared for Al Jaber showed plans to discuss fossil fuel deals with 15 countries.