In the modern era, environmental protection is considered one of the most critical aspects of both national and international security due to its relevance and significance. The transnational nature of many ecological issues has led countries worldwide to perceive these problems as global threats, fostering international cooperation to ensure environmental security. Over the past 50 years, extensive collaborative efforts have been established between countries on environmental protection, resulting in the implementation of successful, wide-ranging international initiatives. Indeed, environmental protection has become a key topic on the international agenda since the second half of the 20th century, writes Matin Mammadli, expert, Center for Analysis of International Relations.
Azerbaijan has also embraced environmental protection as one of the main directions of its domestic and foreign policies. In this context, hosting COP29 clearly showcases Azerbaijan’s contribution to global ecological security. In recent years, Azerbaijan has emerged as one of the primary actors striving for global leadership in addressing ecological challenges. Ecological security is no longer viewed merely through a regional lens but is now considered a crucial aspect of global security, with Azerbaijan’s active participation further strengthening its international standing.
The hosting of this event in Azerbaijan can also be seen as a diplomatic success, reflecting the achievements of the country’s foreign policy. By hosting such prestigious and globally significant international events, Azerbaijan confirms its status as an active and influential actor in international relations. Azerbaijan applies modern solutions to ecological challenges, following a strategy of sustainable development and creating an important platform to draw the attention of the international community to these issues.
Furthermore, Azerbaijan seeks to use the opportunity of hosting COP29 to promote global peace and stability. Official Baku has already proposed that military operations worldwide be suspended during the days of the COP29 summit. This initiative indicates Azerbaijan’s intention to turn COP29 into a peace conference. Should this proposal succeed, it could lead to a decrease in military-political escalations in various conflict zones, bringing the world closer to peace. It is also worth noting that Azerbaijan, despite its long-standing conflict and ongoing peace negotiations with Armenia, has extended an invitation to Armenia to participate in the COP29 climate summit. However, Armenia’s participation remains uncertain.
Nevertheless, in the lead-up to COP29, baseless political pressure and smear campaigns against Azerbaijan have been increasing. These efforts, particularly driven by pro-Armenian circles, aim to damage Azerbaijan’s international image and undermine its growing influence. The instigators of this campaign believe that by intensifying pressure, they can impose their terms on Azerbaijan. However, such smear campaigns not only prove futile but also distract the international community from pressing issues such as ecological security.
Another concerning aspect of this campaign is the potential disruption it could cause to the peace process between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Both countries are currently closer than ever to a peace agreement, and such pressures could jeopardize the process. These smear campaigns not only escalate tensions between the two nations but also negatively impact the stability of the entire region.
The politicization of a globally significant summit like COP29 for ill-intentioned purposes is unacceptable. This event serves as a platform for advancing international dialogue on climate change and ecological security. Politicizing it or using it as a tool for exerting pressure on Azerbaijan goes against the event’s primary purpose. Azerbaijan remains determined to contribute to solving global ecological problems through this summit and has the resilience to withstand such pressures.
Ultimately, hosting COP29 will further enhance Azerbaijan’s contribution to global ecological security and bolster its growing reputation within the international community. Azerbaijan views such events not only as opportunities for discussing ecological issues but also as vital platforms for promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond. This strengthens Azerbaijan’s role as a responsible global actor and a leader in environmental security, earning widespread recognition from the international community.
