WASHINGTON/ABU DHABI- U.S. President Joe Biden is unlikely to participate in the upcoming 28th United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP28) on climate change in Dubai, as reported by two U.S. officials and another individual briefed on the event's planning. COP28 is scheduled to occur from November 30 to December 12 in Dubai, a significant oil-producing region.

It's important to note that Biden's attendance has not been confirmed and remains subject to change until officially announced. The White House has provided no updates regarding the President's travel plans, emphasizing his substantial efforts in advancing a comprehensive climate agenda, both domestically and internationally.

Biden's scheduling challenges stem from managing ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, a budgetary standoff with a Republican-controlled House of Representatives, and the anticipation of an intensifying presidential campaign season in January. The potential absence of the President at COP28 is noteworthy, given the international significance of the event. Several countries aim to negotiate the world's first agreement to phase out CO2-emitting coal, oil, and gas.

Such an agreement would be a considerable achievement for the Democratic President, particularly in light of the 2024 presidential election, where climate change ranks as a top concern for liberal and younger voters. Additionally, the event offers an opportunity for Biden to engage with Arab and other global leaders in discussions regarding the Gaza conflict, following the cancellation of a planned summit in Jordan this month.

Notably, Biden attended both COP summits since his inauguration in 2021, underscoring his commitment to climate action. In contrast, former President Donald Trump, who seeks a second term in 2024, did not attend such events and withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement. Biden subsequently reinstated the U.S. in the global climate pact.

Last year, Biden's participation in COP27 in Egypt was confirmed just two weeks before the event, where he highlighted climate provisions within the Inflation Reduction Act. In a related development, Biden opted not to attend a summit of the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in September, sending Vice President Kamala Harris in his place.

Spokespeople for the administration did not confirm Harris's attendance at COP28 at this time.