Vanuatu's climate minister has voiced concerns over Australia's approval of a major gas project extension, which contradicts the country's aspirations to co-host the Cop31 climate summit. This decision, extending the Woodside's North West Shelf project until 2070, is expected to emit millions of tonnes of greenhouse gases, prompting skepticism from Pacific leaders about Australia's intentions and leadership in climate action. Despite disappointment, Regenvanu has expressed ongoing support for Australia's Cop31 bid while questioning its commitment to Pacific partnerships in addressing climate change.
This is not the leadership we want to see from Australia, if they are to be the host of Cop at the same time, Regenvanu told the Guardian.
It's bewildering for those of us in the Pacific to hear one message and then to see the actions completely contradict what the government is saying to us, Regenvanu told the Guardian.
We continue to stand with Australia, but we feel very disappointed in what's happened, Regenvanu said.
It raises, obviously, questions about whether Australia really is a partner of choice and whether it really is a friend of the Pacific.
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