GENEVA: The international humanitarian community has endorsed a significant agenda during a recent event at the headquarters of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, focusing on the crucial link between climate change and global peace. Organized in collaboration with the COP29 presidency, the event drew notable participants including permanent representatives from UN agencies in Geneva, representatives from international humanitarian organizations, and delegates from UN member states.

According to Trend News Agency, the gathering opened with remarks from Jagan Chapagain, Secretary General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, who commended Azerbaijan for its role in highlighting the intricate relationship between climate change and peace. He also lauded the COP29 presidency for their proactive approach in addressing these challenges.

Elshad Isgandarov, Chief Advisor to the COP29 presidency and Ambassador-at-Large of Azerbaijan’s Foreign Mini
stry, unveiled the concept of Relief, Recovery and Peace Day, which is set to be observed during the COP29 conference. Isgandarov outlined the direct impacts of climate change such as water scarcity, food security threats, soil degradation, and increased migration, which he described as significant threats to international peace and security.

“Only 2 percent of climate financing addresses these issues affecting over 500 million people, leaving many developing countries trapped in hunger, conflict, and disease for years. Developed nations should focus on real disasters instead of politically motivated issues, taking practical steps in this direction. As the COP29 president, Azerbaijan is ready to serve real peace through proposed initiatives,” stated Isgandarov.

Furthermore, the event highlighted the introduction of the Baku Center for Climate and Peacekeeping, a new initiative spearheaded by the COP29 presidency. The Baku Call for Climate Peace was also discussed, which includes practical proposals to comb
at the intertwined issues of climate change and peace.

Ghalib Israfilov, Azerbaijan’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, emphasized the importance of Azerbaijan’s initiatives as part of the COP29 presidency’s Action Plan aimed at bolstering international peace. The discussions involved representatives from 42 countries and 12 international organizations, who praised the COP29 agenda and engaged in a comprehensive Q and A session, addressing numerous queries and concerns.