Last month, the U.S. and China came to an agreement in a separate meeting.

However, the text sparked controversy as it did not address the requests made by the European Union, United States, and small island nations to completely eliminate the use of fossil fuels. These countries, along with Australia and other developed nations, specifically targeted “unabated” fossil fuels – those that emit greenhouse gases without mitigation. Instead, the text proposes that countries pledge to decrease both consumption and production of fossil fuels in order to reach net zero emissions by, before, or around 2050.

Small island nations, the EU, and environmental activists were disappointed by Al-Jaber’s suggestion, as they saw it as a betrayal of their expectations for COP28 to make a clear statement that fossil fuels should be phased out.

John Silk, the minister of natural resources and commerce for the Republic of the Marshall Islands, stated that their intent in coming here was not to sign their own death sentence.

“The EU’s climate commissioner, Wopke Hoekstra, stated that it is evident that the solution presented is inadequate and insufficient in tackling the issue at hand.”

During a private meeting on Monday, French Minister for Energy Transition Agnès Pannier-Runacher expressed her concern about the potential consequences for her children if this text is implemented.

Some individuals were more optimistic.

According to Mohamed Adow, who is the director of the think tank Power Shift Africa, the agreement sets the foundation for significant change.

According to him, there was a compromise made between Saudi Arabia, a major producer of oil who was against acknowledging the use of fossil fuels, and other “progressive” countries. He expressed doubt about the likelihood of this being accepted.

Two diplomats from African countries, who were granted anonymity to speak candidly about the sensitive discussions, said that for many countries on their continent the idea of a fossil fuel phaseout was unworkable.

One individual stated that it was a failure to launch.

Diego Pacheco Balanza, representing a group of countries including India and China, stated in a private meeting that they do not support any efforts to limit or regulate energy sources. They believe that any attempts to phase out or reduce certain sources of energy are unacceptable.

The discussions are set to officially end on Tuesday, a few days prior to the start of the winter festival at Expo City, known for its eco-friendly and futuristic design. However, Hoekstra remains doubtful that a speedy resolution will be reached.

A large number of countries are pushing for stronger efforts to phase out coal and address urgent climate concerns. It is our responsibility to ensure that their voices are heard and that a solution is reached in a timely manner.

This report was contributed by Zack Colman from Dubai.