BAHRAIN: The Bahraini newspaper ‘The Daily Tribune – News of Bahrain’ has published an article by Azerbaijani Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Shahin Abdullayev, focusing on the preparations for the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. The event is scheduled to take place in Baku from November 11 to 22.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the article emphasized Azerbaijan’s commitment to combating climate change, noting its participation in the UNFCCC. Ambassador Abdullayev informed readers about the decision to host COP29, made on December 11 at COP28 in the UAE, highlighting that it signifies global recognition of Azerbaijan’s dedication to green energy despite being an oil and gas producer. He pointed out the short preparation timeline Azerbaijan faces, as host countries typically have over a year to prepare, whereas Azerbaijan has less than a year.

The ambassador explained the global mobilization of the Azerbaijani team to prepare for
the significant event, which will gather thousands of leaders in Azerbaijan. He underscored the importance of these discussions, stating that decisions made will have an impact on the planet’s future. The UNFCCC, established at the 1992 Earth Summit, seeks to limit human interference in the climate, he noted.

Ambassador Abdullayev outlined that the COP is the annual decision-making body of the 198 member states of the Convention, with its presidency rotating among UN regions. Azerbaijan’s selection, backed by unanimous consent in the Eastern European Group over Armenia and Bulgaria, highlights its international standing. In line with its commitment, 2024 has been declared the “Green World Solidarity Year” in Azerbaijan, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 and 40% by 2050. Regions like Karabakh and East Zangezur have been declared green energy zones, aligning with its renewable energy goals.

One of the main focuses at COP29 will be climate finance, with an emphasis on mobilizing funds fo
r mitigation, adaptation, and loss reduction. This will require cooperation among all stakeholders, including international organizations, financial institutions, and the private sector, the ambassador noted.

The diplomat further emphasized Azerbaijan’s role as a bridge between developed and developing nations, accentuated by its recent presidency of the Non-Aligned Movement. This positions Azerbaijan to foster meaningful dialogue at COP29, aiming to collaborate with the United Arab Emirates and Brazil in the Troika of Presidencies to achieve forward-looking results. He concluded by asserting that COP29 is a critical global event for climate change, and Azerbaijan’s selection as host by unanimous decision of the Eastern European Group underscores the trust and respect it has garnered. This event will bolster Azerbaijan’s reputation as a leader in green energy and climate action, reflecting its commitment to a sustainable future on the world stage.