Baku: Ahead of COP29, Ali Serim, the Special Envoy of Vanuatu to COP29 and Special Representative of The Commonwealth Secretary-General, paid tribute to National Leader Heydar Aliyev by visiting his eternal resting place in Alley of Honor. Serim’s visit aimed to honor Aliyev’s legacy and express the respect and gratitude of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) for Azerbaijan’s support.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Serim expressed his sincere appreciation for Azerbaijan’s generous support in facilitating the participation of SIDS at COP29. This support highlights Azerbaijan’s significant role in advocating for climate resilience and fostering cooperation with vulnerable nations. As the international community prepares for COP29, Serim underscores the urgent need for clear and accessible climate finance to assist SIDS, describing COP29 as a crucial platform for implementing genuine solutions.

The Baku Communiqué, a framework developed to elevate SIDS voices in climate negotiations, is supported
by Azerbaijan and key SIDS leaders. This framework provides a unique opportunity for SIDS to advocate for climate finance centered on aid and grants. Serim emphasizes the necessity to revisit the definition of climate finance to ensure accessibility and fairness, as loans or credits with interest contribute to unsustainable debt and hinder access to essential resources.

Serim argues that true climate finance should prioritize grants and direct aid rather than debt-creating instruments, enabling SIDS to invest in resilience and adaptation. Through the Baku Communiqué, SIDS are calling for a refined climate finance model at COP29, ensuring they can access the resources essential for their survival and stability.