COP29 Opens in Baku, Azerbaijan, with a Call for Global Unity on Climate Action
Baku, The Gulf Observer: The 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) officially commenced in Baku, marking a significant milestone in global efforts to address climate change. Azerbaijan is hosting this prestigious international event, drawing leaders, experts, and delegates from around the world. A Host Country Agreement and other key documents have been signed between the Azerbaijani government and the UNFCCC Secretariat, further solidifying Azerbaijan’s role in the global climate movement.
The high-level World Leaders Climate Action Summit, scheduled for November 12-13, will be the main event of COP29. The summit is expected to focus on reaching a fair and ambitious New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance, a critical priority for the COP29 Presidency.
To advance global climate solutions, the COP29 Presidency has introduced 14 strategic initiatives covering crucial areas such as climate resilience, sustainable development, green energy zones and corridors, clean hydrogen, and methane reduction from organic waste. These initiatives include the establishment of the Climate Finance Action Fund, aimed at enabling the necessary financing to meet the 1.5°C climate commitment and mobilize unified action across the globe.
Azerbaijan’s President, Ilham Aliyev, emphasized the country’s commitment to environmental protection and climate resilience, underscoring that Azerbaijan’s unanimous election as the COP29 host reflects the international community’s trust and respect. Under the theme “Let’s stand together for a Green world!”, Azerbaijan is calling on all nations to join in building a sustainable, fair, and inclusive future.
President Aliyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s efforts in bridge-building between developed and developing nations to achieve consensus on climate goals. In line with this commitment, liberated regions, including Garabagh and East Zangezur, as well as the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, have been designated as green zones. These areas are undergoing large-scale restoration and reconstruction projects focused on environmental sustainability, including the development of smart cities and villages.
To demonstrate its commitment, Azerbaijan has declared 2024 as the “Green World Solidarity Year” by presidential order. The country has also set ambitious climate targets, aiming for a 35 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and a 40 percent reduction by 2050, relative to 1990 levels.
COP29, through Azerbaijan’s leadership, aims to strengthen solidarity and ensure that this session marks significant progress toward a global green transformation.
