Deputy minister: Azerbaijan eyes to propose COP Truce Initiative

Azerbaijani Deputy Energy Minister and Chief Executive Officer of COP29 Elnur Sultanov has said that as part of its presidency at COP29, Azerbaijan plans to urge the international community to intensify efforts towards establishing ceasefires in regions affected by ongoing armed conflicts.

Sultanov made these remarks during the panel discussion titled "COP29 and Green Horizons: Navigating Climate Change", Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

The deputy energy minister emphasised the importance of interregional cooperation in addressing climate change and preventing adverse global scenarios. He highlighted that as the host country for the global climate conference, Azerbaijan has proposed 14 initiatives, three of which focus on financial matters and several others address energy-related issues.

"Additionally, we are considering proposing a 'COP Truce' initiative. We will call for efforts to establish ceasefires in regions where armed conflicts are ongoing. Even a brief ceasefire, lasting just an hour, is crucial. Combat operations result in significant atmospheric emissions," he added.

Baku will host the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29).

A group of Eastern European countries has chosen Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, to host COP29 climate talks next year.

Earlier, Bulgaria withdrew its candidacy to host the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in favour of Azerbaijan.

Moreover, Baku and Yerevan agreed to support each other at some international venues. In a joint statement, Armenia said it would support Azerbaijan's bid to host the COP29 summit.

The conference is being held in rotation by five UN regional groups, and Eastern Europe will take part next year.