October 10, 2024
By Samuel Ogunsona
The Pre-COP29 climate talks officially began in Baku, Azerbaijan, bringing together representatives from governments, international organizations, and civil society.
The meeting, held a month before the main COP29 conference, aims to align participants of the Paris Agreement on key issues related to climate change and set the foundation for successful outcomes at the upcoming summit.
In his opening address, COP29 President-designate and Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan, Mukhtar Babayev, acknowledged the progress made so far but called for increased urgency and collaboration to achieve significant milestones.
He emphasized the importance of using the Pre-COP meeting to reach consensus on crucial areas and avoid leaving major decisions until the final climate summit.
“The implementation of these commitments will determine real steps to reduce greenhouse gas and non-pollutant emissions. It is crucial that we make substantial headway in these areas before the main COP29 summit, where final collective approval will be sought,” Babayev stated.
Key areas of discussion during the Pre-COP29 meeting includes the “New Collective Quantitative Objective” on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, clarification on matters related to the formation of the international Loss and Damage Response Fund and the Green Climate Fund, building consensus to support financial commitments made during COP28, including mobilizing $1 trillion annually to tackle climate challenges in developing nations among others.
Babayev also highlighted the global significance of decisions related to Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which governs carbon markets and international cooperation on emission reductions. He urged participants to set aside political differences and prioritize the global climate agenda.
“We believe that all political differences should be put aside for the sake of a bright climate future. I am sure that this will be supported by all participants of COP29,” Babayev concluded.
The Pre-COP29 meeting will continue over the next few days, with representatives engaging in intensive deliberations aimed at narrowing gaps and aligning priorities ahead of COP29. The outcomes of Pre-COP29 are anticipated to lay the groundwork for enhanced climate action and stronger commitments during COP29, scheduled to take place later this year.
