COP29 President: Mines pose dual threats to lives and sustainable development

Mukhtar Babayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources and President of COP29 issued a video message at the international conference on mine action "Reducing the Environmental Impact of Mines - Mobilising Resources for a Safe and Green Future" in Zangilan.

He emphasized that mines not only endanger lives but also impede sustainable development, as per Report.

"Our goal is to create a green energy zone in the liberated territories. By restoring ecosystems and reintroducing sustainable practices, we aim to turn these lands into green zones. We use innovative technologies and approaches such as smart cities and smart villages to ensure minimal emissions," he said.

Babayev said the green energy zone concept being applied in the region will also directly contribute to achieving the net-zero targets.

"Solving this problem is a national priority not only for Azerbaijan. It is a global problem. That is why international cooperation and resource mobilisation are equally important. We call on the international community and development partners to join us in this mission,’ he said.

Babayev noted that Azerbaijan maintains long-standing partnership relations with the UN Development Programme and other international organisations: ‘This has played an important role in our activities and environmental activities.’

‘Together we can ensure that all affected regions around the world become symbols of resilience, renewal and environmental restoration,’ the COP29 president added.