HLPF Ministerial Declaration adopted

The High-level Political Forum Ministerial Declaration was adopted after a vote on paragraph 19 on language on Paris Agreement was called for by Nicaragua. It stated that Nicaragua refuses to sign the Paris Agreement because it will not ensure remaining below 1.5 degrees. Its requests for flexible language in the Ministerial Declaration had not even been heard by "powerful countries", and did not find any understanding from the co-facilitators. Hence it called for a vote on paragraph 19.

The result of the vote was 141 in favour of keeping paragraph 19; 1 against; and 3 abstentions (Russia, Myanmar, Egypt).

Nicaragua's traditional allies then explained why they had voted in favour, saying that this sets a dangerous precedent actually to leave people behind, because the voice of developing countries was ignored by not having flexible practices of negotiation. Russia wondered whether the Political Forum has rules of procedure for voting and what mechanisms will be set in place.

The Ministerial Declaration was approved.

Following the vote the US expressed disappointment at the countries that broke the silence and added that the new Ministerial Declaration did not create new rights nor new obligations.

Finally, the UN Secretary-General applauded the brave volunteer countries and acknowledged the role of Major Groups and other Stakeholders for maintaining the momentum and for coming well prepared to the HLPF. He also said that the HLPF should strengthen the UN system to make it fit to deliver.