High-level Round Table on COP28 and COP29 Commences in Paris

A significant high-level round table focusing on the 28th and 29th sessions of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change has commenced at the International Energy Agency headquarters in Paris, as reported by Azernews. The meeting sees the presence of delegates from various countries, with Azerbaijan being represented by Deputy Foreign Minister Yalcin Rafiyev, who serves as the Chief Negotiator of COP29.

The round table serves as a platform where world leaders in the climate and energy sectors, along with government officials and diplomats, gather to discuss and strategize on crucial matters pertaining to COP28 and COP29. Chaired by COP28 President Sultan Al Jaber, the discussions aim to evaluate the outcomes of COP28 under the auspices of the United Arab Emirates and outline the future steps for COP29.

In preparation for the upcoming COP29, Deputy Foreign Minister Yalcin Rafiyev engaged in a meeting with IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol on February 19. During the meeting, Rafiyev underscored the necessity for participating nations to make significant decisions in combatting climate change during COP29. The discussions also touched upon potential collaboration opportunities within the framework of the Baku COP29.

Furthermore, Azerbaijan's Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources and COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev highlighted the thematic focus of COP29 during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference. He emphasized that the conference in Azerbaijan will center on transparency and inclusivity, inviting all nations to partake in the event in Baku. Babayev expressed confidence in achieving positive outcomes and viewed the event as an opportunity to build upon the successful consensus established in Dubai and to carry it forward to Baku before Brazil in 2025.

Babayev also highlighted the significance of collaboration among the troika of COP Presidents in advancing the climate agenda collectively. The decision for Azerbaijan to host COP29 was finalized during the COP28 plenary session in Dubai on December 11 the previous year.

In conclusion, the high-level round table in Paris marks the commencement of critical discussions and strategic planning for COP28 and COP29. With global leaders and delegates convening to address pressing climate challenges, the stage is set for collaborative efforts towards fostering sustainability and environmental stewardship on a global scale.

Source: azernews.az