Pope Francis is set to have a full day of private meetings with world leaders during the COP28 climate conference in Dubai.
This marks the first time in his papacy that the pope, who is also a head of state, will engage in numerous high-level, one-on-one meetings in such a short period. Beyond climate discussions, the meetings offer an opportunity for the pope to connect with global leaders on issues such as the wars in Gaza and Ukraine.
The conference in Dubai runs from November 30 to December 12, and Pope Francis will be in Dubai from December 1 to 3. Following his conference speech on December 2, the pope will have two sessions of private meetings for the remainder of the day.
While the list of attendees has not been disclosed, King Charles is expected to give the opening address, and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is anticipated to attend.
Although President Joe Biden is unlikely to attend, a final decision has not been confirmed. The conference aims to achieve the world’s first deal to phase out carbon dioxide-emitting coal, oil, and gas.
Pope Francis is expected to emphasize the need for action to curb global warming, building on his recent appeal in the Apostolic Exhortation “Laudate Deum.”
