Pressure is growing on India as several South Asian countries unite to commit to phasing out fossil fuels at COP30. Nepal and Sri Lanka, on Nov 17, expressed their support for this high-level action agenda. 

All the small cities and towns, including Agartala, have been grappling with air pollution, mainly emitted from fossil fuel-driven vehicles, besides massive mobility loss, creating urban tension and multiple challenges in daily life.

In a notable development, Cambodia has signed the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative, increasing the number of supporting nations to 18. Pakistan had previously joined the coalition against fossil fuels, while some activists have voiced concerns that fossil fuel interests may overshadow the UNFCCC process. 

They urged the countries to withdraw subsidies from fossil fuels, strengthen public transport up to small towns, shift the habit from personal car to a common vehicle, and make road space free for safe and comfortable walking.

Cambodia is particularly noteworthy as the second Southeast Asian country to endorse the Treaty proposal. Their involvement is crucial, leveraging their successful track record in multilateral agreements, such as the landmine ban, to aid in creating a global framework for phasing out fossil fuels.

At the event, Dr. Madan Prasad Pariyar, Nepal's Minister of Agriculture and Livestock Development, stated, “Coming from Nepal, a nation dealing with the consequences of rising emissions, we are committed to the 1.5 degrees Celsius temperature limit, which is vital for our future. We pledge to reduce emissions by 2045 and fully support this initiative.”

Dr. Sunimal Jayathunga, Additional Secretary of Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Environment, emphasized the significance of global efforts, noting, “Sri Lanka recognizes the need for equity, shared responsibilities, and access to resources. The severe impacts we endure—intense rainfall and landslides—are immediate realities, not distant threats.”

Cambodia has previously shown climate leadership as the second Southeast Asian nation to submit its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), aiming for an impressive 55% reduction in emissions by 2035. Transitioning away from fossil fuels also presents economic advantages for Cambodia, as it would reduce spending on oil, gas, and coal imports, as highlighted by Soung Sophorn, Secretary of State of the Council of Ministers.

The Fossil Fuel Treaty marks a pivotal global effort that aligns with our dedication to achieving a low-carbon and green economy, setting the stage for a climate-resilient future in Cambodia. We wholeheartedly endorse this treaty as a means to elevate global climate action ambitions, fully recognizing the importance of its goals for safeguarding our planet and supporting those who are most vulnerable.

However, it's important to highlight that developing countries cannot undertake this transition on their own. We need enhanced international support that includes climate finance, technology transfers, capacity-building, and collaborations to diversify our energy strategies and ensure that no workers or communities are overlooked. Cambodia is ready to work alongside all nations to uphold the principles of stopping new drilling, managing the phase-out of fossil fuels responsibly, and facilitating a fair, people-centered transition.

During the High-Level Briefing, ministers from 17 nations, together with 10 other like-minded countries, came together to discuss the legal avenues for establishing a Treaty, potential legal and financial mechanisms, and a thorough overview of the Journey Fund.