World's First Fossil Fuel Phase-Out Conference to Focus on Energy Security

Amidst the US-Iran war highlighting nations' heavy reliance on coal, oil, and natural gas, over 50 countries will gather in Colombia next week for the world's first international conference dedicated to gradually phasing out fossil fuels. Analysts believe the conference will focus on issues such as energy security.

According to AFP, the US-Iran war has led to tight oil supplies and soaring prices, making countries anxious to ensure energy security. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has called it the biggest energy supply shock in history.

The conference is scheduled to take place in the Colombian city of Santa Marta on April 28-29. Colombian Environment Minister Irene Velez Torres, a co-host, stated that the conference, announced months ago, has 'become even more significant' after the outbreak of the energy crisis.

This conference originated from disappointment with the consensus mechanism of United Nations (UN) climate negotiations, where progress on fossil fuel phase-out strategies has been slow.

Organizers stated that the energy shock caused by Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has further underscored the urgency of phasing out fossil fuels, even though some countries have temporarily shifted to coal to ensure energy security.

Analysts believe that energy security is as important as climate change priorities and will be a central theme of the conference.

Major fossil fuel producers like Australia, Canada, and Norway, as well as developing oil giants such as Angola, Mexico, and Brazil, and emerging markets dependent on coal like Turkey and Vietnam, are expected to attend.

Other participants include dozens of island nations and small developing countries, as well as major economies like Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.

Velez Torres believes that involving oil-producing nations in discussions on this 'taboo' topic is 'a big step forward.'

She emphasized: 'We need to create a more honest and open dialogue space, putting all options on the table. No one says phasing out fossil fuels is easy, but we must bring all parties together.' (Translator: Hong Qi-yuan) 1150420