President Ilham Aliyev Emphasizes Azerbaijan’s Commitment to Climate Action Amidst Criticisms

President Ilham Aliyev Emphasizes Azerbaijan's Commitment to Climate Action Amidst Criticisms

Baku, The Gulf Observer: President Ilham Aliyev, speaking at the 10th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and 2nd Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku, underscored the significance of Azerbaijan hosting COP29 this year. Despite facing criticisms, the President defended Azerbaijan’s decision, asserting that the global event on climate change demonstrates the nation’s strong commitment to environmental responsibility.

Addressing the attendees, President Aliyev remarked, “As soon as the decision was made last December, immediately, we’ve been attacked by different NGOs, media, etc., only for one reason, because we have oil and that was considered to be our biggest fault. The fact that we wanted to host this global event on climate change demonstrates our will. We must be praised for that and not attacked. We didn’t do anything wrong. But as soon as the decision was made, immediately, we faced a coordinated, consolidated and very unfair attack on us. There have been many attacks on Azerbaijan in the previous years. We have a very thick skin.”

President Aliyev’s comments highlighted the nation’s resilience in the face of criticism, affirming that Azerbaijan remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing climate change on the global stage. The decision to host COP29 reflects the country’s dedication to environmental stewardship and marks a milestone in its efforts to contribute meaningfully to the global discourse on climate action.

Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29 is a testament to the nation’s determination to play a proactive role in shaping the future of environmental policies and practices. As the international community grapples with the challenges of climate change, President Aliyev’s words underscore the importance of unity and cooperation in addressing this global issue.

The Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting and the Green Energy Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting serve as platforms for discussing crucial energy and environmental matters, showcasing Azerbaijan’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration in these critical areas.