Climate Change: The Necessity of Cooperation for Sustainable Development and Protection of our Planet

BY SHAHIN ABDULLAYEV, AMBASSADOR OF THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN IN RIYADH

We are proud that Azerbaijan has been chosen to host the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and understand the responsibility it entails. Climate change, driven by natural factors and human activities, is one of the most pressing global issues.

According to the World Meteorological Orgwtanization, 80-85% of natural disasters are linked to abnormal hydrometeorological phenomena caused by climate change. Azerbaijan joined the UNFCCC to contribute to the fight against climate change.

The decision to host COP29, made on December 11 at COP28 in the UAE, reflects global recognition of Azerbaijan’s commitment to green energy, even as an oil and gas producer. Our timeline to prepare for COP29 is short. Host countries typically have over a year to prepare, but Azerbaijan has less than a year.

Since the decision, our team has mobilized globally to prepare for the high-level event that will bring thousands of leaders to Azerbaijan. These discussions are crucial, as decisions taken will impact our planet’s future. The UNFCCC, established at the 1992 Earth Summit, aims to limit human interference in the climate.

The COP is the annual decision-making body of the 198 member states of the Convention.

The presidency rotates among UN regions, and Azerbaijan’s selection, supported by unanimous consent in the Eastern European Group over Armenia and Bulgaria, demonstrates its international standing. In line with our commitment, 2024 has been declared the “Year of Solidarity for a Green World” in Azerbaijan.

We aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 and 40% by 2050. Regions like Karabakh and East Zangezur have been declared green energy zones, aligning with our renewable energy goals.

Azerbaijan’s potential in renewable energy is significant, with ongoing projects supported by Saudi Arabia’s Acwa Power and the UAE’s Masdar, including the Khizi-Absheron wind plant.

One of the main focuses at COP29 will be climate finance. Mobilizing funds for mitigation, adaptation, and loss reduction will require cooperation among all stakeholders, including international organizations, financial institutions, and the private sector.

Azerbaijan’s role as a bridge between developed and developing nations, highlighted by our recent presidency of the NonAligned Movement, positions us to foster meaningful dialogue at COP29. We aim to work with the United Arab Emirates and Brazil in the Troika of Presidencies to deliver forward-looking results. COP29 is one of the most critical global events for climate change.

Azerbaijan’s selection as the host by unanimous decision of the Eastern European Group highlights the trust and respect we have earned. This event will enhance Azerbaijan’s reputation as a leader in green energy and climate action, reflecting our dedication to a sustainable future on the world stage.