NEW YORK—During his speech at the General Debate of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister, Jeyhun Bayramov, emphasized the critical role of multilateralism in addressing global challenges and highlighted Azerbaijan’s upcoming presidency at COP29.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Minister Bayramov extended congratulations to the new and outgoing Presidents of the General Assembly and expressed gratitude towards the UN Secretary-General for his dedication to the organization’s goals. In his address, Bayramov outlined the myriad global issues that necessitate a united multilateral effort, stressing that no country can face these challenges in isolation.

Bayramov criticized the current state of international politics for its divisiveness and the selective application of international law, advocating for a stronger, more consistent application of the UN Charter’s principles. He called for urgent progress on reforms within the UN Security Council to reflect the spirit of flexibility and cooperation that the international community needs.

Highlighting the global climate crisis as a primary focus of his speech, Bayramov detailed Azerbaijan’s role in the upcoming COP29. He underscored the country’s commitment to fostering significant climate action, noting the introduction of 14 initiatives aimed at integrating climate action with sustainable development goals. The Foreign Minister also introduced the Climate Finance Action Fund, designed to support climate finance through contributions from fossil fuel producers.

The speech also covered Azerbaijan’s efforts in international peace and security, particularly through its past chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement and its ongoing post-conflict rehabilitation efforts with Armenia. Bayramov voiced a call to action for global leaders to uphold international law and work towards sustainable development, marking Azerbaijan’s dedication to these global efforts.