The COP29 event held in  Baku will undoubtedly go down in history as a platform where global agreements to address ecological challenges were successfully reached. We have ample grounds to support this conclusion, which will be elaborated on shortly. Furthermore, the high level of organization, positive feedback from participants, and tangible outcomes make this event highly significant for Azerbaijan. To assess the successes of COP29, it is essential first to examine the key aspects of its organization and progress.

The COP29 event brought together representatives from nearly 200 states, including over 76,000 participants and more than 80 heads of state and government. Successfully hosting such a large-scale event underscores Azerbaijan’s organizational professionalism and its growing role on the global stage. Baku’s modern infrastructure, well-executed security measures, and welcoming environment received widespread praise from participants.

This event, hosted by Azerbaijan, was noteworthy not only from an organizational perspective but also diplomatically. COP29 in Baku strengthened Azerbaijan’s position in international diplomacy and affirmed its role as a key partner in addressing global challenges. It should also be noted that COP29 can be regarded as one of the most prestigious and large-scale events organized by Azerbaijan since it restored independence in 1991.

Before COP29 commenced, significant skepticism surrounded its success. Doubts primarily stemmed from deep divisions between developed and developing countries on critical issues, particularly financial and technological transfers. These differences posed a serious threat to the event’s objectives.

The most notable manifestation of this skepticism was the protracted negotiations over financial targets. However, through intense discussions that extended into the night of November 23–24, consensus was ultimately reached among the parties. It is worth mentioning that the event was extended by one day to finalize this agreement. The consensus reached among representatives of nearly 200 states highlights COP29’s pivotal role in fostering international cooperation.

Key Achievements of Baku COP29

Among the agreements reached at COP29, the following stand out:

• Operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund: Activating this fund will significantly support developing countries in combating the impacts of climate change.

• Implementation of Article 6 on Carbon Markets: The long-debated mechanism was finalized, marking a crucial step in addressing environmental challenges.

• Approval of the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG): COP29 established a commitment to allocate $300 billion annually to developing countries by 2035.

These agreements are particularly significant for developing countries, enabling their more effective participation in combating climate change. U.S. President Joe Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also commended the outcomes of these agreements.

Azerbaijan’s role as a neutral mediator during COP29 deserves special attention. Thanks to Baku’s effective climate diplomacy, compromises between parties were ultimately achieved. Throughout the event, Azerbaijan maintained an impartial stance on global issues, successfully striking a balance between developed and developing countries in the fight against climate change.

By consistently advocating financial support for developing nations during the event, Azerbaijan further solidified its position as a responsible international partner. This also demonstrated Azerbaijan’s reliability as a host for prestigious events in the future.

Unfortunately, Azerbaijan faced unwarranted criticism and smear campaigns before and during COP29. Certain states and groups called for the event’s politicization or even a boycott. However, these efforts failed to deter Azerbaijan from its goals. On the contrary, such pressures only motivated Azerbaijan to act with greater determination and purpose.

Azerbaijan not only successfully organized the event but also steered its outcomes in a positive global direction, countering destructive attempts with steadfast resolve.

Conclusion

The results of COP29 unequivocally demonstrate that this event will significantly contribute to the global fight against climate change. COP29 in  Baku also reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s growing influence on the international stage. The event not only served as a platform for reaching global agreements to address ecological challenges but also showcased Azerbaijan’s organizational and diplomatic capabilities. The agreements and consensus achieved at COP29 further solidified Azerbaijan’s leading role in the fight against climate change.

As both a neutral mediator and host country, Azerbaijan demonstrated its readiness to contribute to solving global environmental issues. In this regard, COP29 can rightly be regarded as a major success for Azerbaijan. This event will not only be remembered today but will also serve as a vital example and legacy for the future.

https://www.eurasiareview.com/25112024-baku-cop29-successfully-achieves-its-primary-goals-oped/