Former Secretary of State John Kerry supports UAE's selection of oil executive to lead UN climate negotiations

Former US Secretary of State John Kerry has come out in support of the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) decision to appoint its oil chief to oversee the United Nations climate talks, known as COP28. The summit, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi in 2023, will bring together representatives from around the world to negotiate and discuss ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

The decision to appoint an oil executive to lead the summit has been met with criticism from climate activists, including Greta Thunberg, who called the appointment "completely ridiculous." Critics argue that it is a conflict of interest for an oil executive to lead the summit, which is focused on reducing the use of fossil fuels and transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

In a statement, Kerry defended the UAE's decision, saying, "The oil industry will play a key role in the transition to a low-carbon economy, and the UAE's oil chief brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. He understands the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, and will be able to provide valuable insights and guidance during the negotiations."

Kerry also highlighted the UAE's efforts to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil, pointing to the country's investments in renewable energy and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions. He added, "The UAE is taking a leadership role in the transition to a low-carbon economy, and it is important that we support and encourage their efforts."

The COP28 climate summit is set to be a critical event in the global fight against climate change. Countries will come together to negotiate new targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and to discuss ways to finance and implement the necessary changes to achieve these goals. The appointment of an oil executive to lead the summit may be controversial, but supporters argue that it is important to have a diverse group of leaders and perspectives involved in the negotiations.

Critics and supporters of the appointment both agree that it is important for the oil industry to be part of the conversation and transition towards the low carbon economy. However, some argue that the industry should not lead the conversation on how to mitigate the impacts of their industry.

Critics also argue that having oil executive leading the COP28, which is designed to find ways to reduce fossil fuel use, undermines the talks and the credibility of the summit. They also pointed out that the oil industry has a history of lobbying against climate regulations and legislation.

The COP28 climate summit will be a significant event in the global effort to combat climate change, and the appointment of the UAE's oil chief as the leader of the summit is sure to generate a lot of discussion and debate. Regardless of one's opinion on the appointment, it is clear that the oil industry will play a critical role in the transition to a low-carbon economy and that the summit will need to find ways to work with and engage the industry in order to achieve meaningful progress.