Azerbaijan Highlights Inclusivity of COP Process, Backs Türkiye for COP31

Baku, The Gulf Observer: The Conference of the Parties (COP) remains one of the most inclusive platforms within the United Nations system, bringing together governments, civil society, academic institutions, youth groups and other stakeholders, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev said during a briefing at the headquarters of the Non-Aligned Movement Youth Organization (NAMYO).
Rafiyev, who also serves as Azerbaijan’s Lead Negotiator for COP29, highlighted the significance of Azerbaijan hosting the global climate summit in November 2024, describing it as a landmark achievement and one of the most important international events since the country gained independence.
He said the successful outcomes of the Baku-hosted COP29 summit have created a lasting legacy and will be remembered as a major milestone in the global COP process.
The deputy foreign minister stressed that climate finance should not be viewed solely as a matter discussed among governments, noting that non-state actors and partners also play a critical role in addressing climate challenges and mobilizing financial resources.
Speaking about preparations for COP31, scheduled to take place in Türkiye, Rafiyev said Samed Ağırbaş, Türkiye’s Climate High-Level Champion for the upcoming summit, has extensive experience in climate policy and is already actively engaging with various stakeholders.
Rafiyev added that Azerbaijan has expressed its full support for “brotherly Türkiye” in hosting COP31 and will continue to cooperate closely in advancing the global climate agenda.