Baku: The liberated territories of Karabakh in Azerbaijan hold significant potential to transform into a green energy region, according to Ahmed Abdoh Tarabeik, an Egyptian expert and researcher on Central Asia and the Caucasus. In an interview with Azerbaijan State News Agency (AZERTAC), Tarabeik emphasized Azerbaijan’s pivotal role in advancing the green energy transition, particularly as the host of the upcoming 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the COP29 conference, scheduled to take place in Baku from November 11 to 22, 2024, will focus on uniting global efforts to combat climate change. Tarabeik highlighted Azerbaijan’s strategic geographical position and its proactive climate initiatives, which enhance the country’s contributions to the global climate agenda. A central task of the summit will be to agree on a new annual financing goal, aimed at supporting developing countries in
their climate adaptation efforts. Tarabeik expressed confidence in Azerbaijan’s ability to foster consensus on these initiatives, noting the country’s model shift towards green energy in regions like Karabakh.
Tarabeik also addressed the global feasibility of green transformation, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts among nations. He stressed that industrialized countries, which have historically contributed to high carbon emissions, must play a significant role in assisting developing nations in their transition to green technologies. The challenges posed by climate change require urgent attention, with industrialized nations expected to contribute both technically and economically to the green transformation process.
In discussing innovative climate technologies, Tarabeik noted that the COP29 Presidency of Azerbaijan has outlined numerous initiatives, including establishing funds for voluntary contributions from countries and fossil fuel producers. These initiatives aim to support climate-relat
ed projects and address natural disasters in developing regions, further demonstrating Azerbaijan’s commitment to climate action.
Tarabeik identified Azerbaijan as a promising market for renewable energy investment, citing its natural resources such as high mountains and abundant sunshine, which are conducive to generating hydroelectric, wind, and solar power. The country’s ability to attract investment and collaborate with nations possessing advanced green technologies, such as the United States, China, and the European Union, positions Azerbaijan as a potential leader in green energy transition.
Despite its status as an oil-producing nation, Azerbaijan is committed to reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and increasing clean energy production. Tarabeik noted the country’s ambitious goals to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 and by 40% by 2050. The reconstruction of Karabakh’s infrastructure aligns with these goals, incorporating modern green energy solutions to transform it into a sustainable
region.
The liberated territories of Karabakh, with their natural resources and strategic rehabilitation efforts, are set to become a model green energy zone by 2050, as outlined by President Ilham Aliyev. This transformation aligns with Azerbaijan’s broader climate objectives and commitment to achieving net-zero emissions in the liberated territories, further solidifying its role in the global green energy landscape.