Our islands are threatened more than ever, says Obama at COP26

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Former US President Barack Obama urged people gathered at COP26 to work together.

Former US President Barack Obama arrived in Glasgow to address the United Nations climate conference or COP26.

"We have to act now to help with adaptation and resilience," the former US president told the delegates at COP26 as he recalled his childhood experiences while growing up in Hawaii.

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"Our islands are threatened more than ever," Obama said while adding that wealthy nations have an "added burden" to ensure help is provided to those who are more vulnerable.

“It's a reminder that if you all want to paddle a canoe you better all be rowing in the same direction and at the same time, every oar has to move in unison, that's the only way that you move forward,” the former US president said as he urged people gathered at COP26 to work together.

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Several countries have vowed to end deforestation and phase out coal. However, Australia on Monday said it would continue to sell coal "decades into the future". 

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The summit has entered the final week as countries grapple with climate change issues.  A report released during the summit said most vulnerable nations will witness a drop in GDP on average by 2050 by at least 20 per cent. Echoing Obama's thoughts, the report said small island nations are most vulnerable to rising sea levels and storms.

(With inputs from Agencies)