BAKU — In a significant endorsement, OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais expressed full support for Azerbaijan’s role in the upcoming COP29, emphasizing the country’s balanced approach between energy security and emissions reduction in an exclusive interview with Trend.
According to Trend News Agency, Haitham Al Ghais highlighted Azerbaijan’s longstanding collaboration with OPEC and non-OPEC producers under the Declaration of Cooperation since 2017. He underscored the country’s critical role in maintaining global energy stability and addressing climate challenges. The Secretary General pointed out the need to manage the rising global energy demand, expected to increase by 23% by 2045, and the urban population growth, with about 500 million people moving to cities by 2030.
Al Ghais praised Azerbaijan for its pragmatic and inclusive strategies towards COP29, which he said exemplifies the necessity of balancing emissions reduction with the provision of affordable energy. He stressed the importance of considering the energy needs of billions without modern facilities, focusing not on emissions but on basic energy provisions like lighting and clean cooking facilities.
Furthermore, Al Ghais elaborated on the bilateral relations between OPEC and Azerbaijan, mentioning his participation in Baku Energy Week and discussions with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev and Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov. He noted Aliyev’s defense of hydrocarbon-rich countries’ rights to continue energy production, describing oil as a “gift from God” essential for powering various sectors and producing critical materials like plastics and pharmaceuticals.
Looking ahead to COP29, the OPEC Secretary General revealed plans for a technical workshop and a climate coordination meeting in mid-October. He expressed hope for continued high-level dialogues under the Charter of Cooperation, emphasizing a multilateral approach to energy issues.
In closing, Al Ghais reaffirmed OPEC’s commitment to supporting its member countries in balancing hydrocarbon and renewable investments and advancing technologies to optimize energy use and reduce environmental impact.