The United Arab Emirates has told the IMO it is backing plans for a tougher net zero emissions target for shipping by 2050, in a U-turn by a previously strong opponent of more stringent climate goals.

The UAE, which is due to host this year’s COP28 climate change summit, said it is in favour of more ambitious measures to reach net zero greenhouse gas emission targets for the industry by 2050 at the latest, according to a letter from the country’s energy minister.