19 November 2013: The Joint High-level Segment of the 19th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 19) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the ninth session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP 9) has opened in Warsaw, Poland, with UN officials stressing that sustainable development is crucial to halting the carbon emissions that contribute to climate change.

COP 19, which is taking place from 11-22 November 2013, aims to advance negotiations in preparation for a new legally binding climate treaty, to be agreed upon at COP 21 in 2015. That year coincides with the expiration of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and agreement of a new development agenda for post-2015.

Speakers at the High-level Segment welcoming ceremony on 19 November 2013 emphasized the relationship between climate change and development processes, and called on Member States for a high level of ambition and momentum in both areas.

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stressed that climate change threatens both current and future generations, and progress must be made on a climate change treaty before 2015. He expressed hope for global progress, highlighting partnerships and initiatives to address the challenges of climate change, including sustainable energy, sustainable cities, and climate-smart agriculture.

John Ashe, President of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), called on Parties to take a larger view of the importance of UNFCCC negotiations, reminding participants that “if there is one constant than binds us all in this our UN global family, it is this: we are all committed to the overarching goal of improving the lives of our respective peoples.” Speaking of the role of climate change in upcoming negotiations on a post-2015 development agenda, Ashe stressed that the topic must be responsibly addressed. He insisted that the UNFCCC and broader UN processes be conducted in a mutually reinforcing manner.

Christiana Figueres, UNFCCC Executive Secretary, said communities in the Philippines and around the world have felt the devastating impacts of climate change, and are calling out for change. Stressing the importance of political momentum, Figueres urged increased ambition in the pre-2020 period, as well as an agreement that defines a low-carbon post-2020 economy.

Statements delivered by Ministers also highlighted the development agenda, national efforts at sustainable development, and the multiple crucial agreements to be reached in 2015. [Statement of UN Secretary-General] [Statement of UNGA President] [Statement of UNFCCC Executive Secretary] [Warsaw Climate Change Conference Webpage] [IISD RS Meeting Coverage]