Through the Swedish Energy Agency, the Kingdom of Sweden has voluntarily supported a cooperation initiative for countries willing to reach their respective mitigation targets as per the provisions of the article.
By working together and trading carbon credits, countries can achieve larger emission reductions than what they otherwise would have been able to with their own resources.
The MoU, signed in Kigali, marks a significant step in the joint efforts to
address climate change and deepen the cooperation between the two countries in relation to their climate mitigation efforts.
The partnership sets the stage for both nations to collaborate on areas of mutual interest, particularly in climate change mitigation, as well as in supporting the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) of each country.
Shortly after signing the cooperation pact, Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, Rwanda's Minister of Environment, explains that this will foster joint initiatives such as technical analysis, capacity building, and the development of joint work plans.
According to her, this is very important since it supports Rwanda's already existing targets on climate change mitigation and paves way for potential legally binding agreements that can further both parties' joint objectives.
"This partnership with the Swedish Energy Agency reinforces Rwanda's commitment of implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement and advancing our Nationally Determined Contributions,' she said.
'Rwanda is eager to leverage this partnership to not only to meet our climate targets but also foster sustainable development that benefits both our environment and our people,' she added.
Through this collaboration, both Rwanda and Sweden will also engage in dialogue and organize activities and meetings with stakeholders, aiming to promote bilateral cooperation in achieving climate mitigation goals.
Martina Fors Mohlin, Chargé d´affaires Embassy of Sweden in Kigali also highlighted the significance of the agreement, commending Rwanda for its efforts.
'Rwanda has shown that it is possible to combine economic growth with ambitious climate mitigation goals. Through its initiatives for a long-term green transition, Rwanda is an inspiration for other countries,' she said.
Martina emphasized that Sweden is committed to financing high-quality greenhouse gas mitigation activities in Rwanda that provide substantial contributions to the energy transition in the country
The MoU sets the foundation for Rwanda and Sweden to develop a Bilateral
Cooperation Agreement which would enable Sweden to finance emission reduction projects in Rwanda.
According to her, this will support Rwanda and Sweden's national efforts to meet their climate targets and drive sustainable development.
The Swedish Energy Agency is the country´s lead agency on Article 6, with a mandate from the Swedish government to enter into bilateral agreements with other countries.
Sam K Nkurunziza
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-sweden-sign-cooperation-pact-on-climate-change-mitigation
