FM joins world leaders at COP28

Official opening of the Heriot-Watt University Dubai Campus

First Minister Humza Yousaf has joined global leaders to set out Scotland’s ambitions and objectives for COP28 as the climate conference opened in Dubai yesterday.

His first engagement was the official opening of the new Heriot-Watt Dubai Campus with His Majesty King Charles III, showcasing Scotland’s influential higher education sector. The First Minister said the campus helped showcase the leading role Scotland is playing in finding solutions for the biggest challenges facing the planet. 

The First Minister also opened the Scottish Government-supported Multi-Level Action and Urbanisation Pavilion, and met with Global South partners and youth activists to discuss priorities for COP28.

The First Minister later joined senior business and trade leaders, Scottish university representatives, and representatives of the Global Scots network at a St Andrew’s Day reception, with industry-leading Chef Adam Tracey showcasing the best of Scotland’s food and drink.

First Minister Humza Yousaf said: “I am proud of Scotland’s leadership in advocating for climate justice and progressing a just transition to net zero, so it is fitting the official opening of Heriot-Watt University Campus in Dubai takes place on the first day of the world’s largest global climate conference. 

“This new campus will play a leading role in demonstrating the skills and ideas we have in Scotland to help find solutions for the biggest challenges facing the planet.

“The ambitions, enthusiasm and dedication of young people around the world are crucial in tackling climate change and advocating for climate action.

“Globally we need to harness this energy and ensure we are using our collective talent, innovation, and enthusiasm to contribute to finding the solutions that will deliver a net zero future.

“The Scottish Government will continue to call for loss and damage funding that prioritises the needs of vulnerable communities and take a lead on addressing the biodiversity and the climate crisis. I am confident these shared ambitions will be keenly felt by those who attend this vital climate summit, and at home.”