UN Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, Gwyn Lewis, expressed gratitude to the guests and reflected on the enduring partnership between the UN and the people of Bangladesh.

The ceremony was attended by government and political representatives, members of the diplomatic community, civil society leaders, youth delegates, media professionals, and officials from various UN agencies.

Discussions highlighted eight decades of cooperation between the UN and Bangladesh, focusing on the organization’s contributions to global peace and development. The event also paid special tribute to the youth leadership of the July–August 2024 revolution.

“We are always proud to stand beside the people of Bangladesh. Even amid recent political transitions, the UN has remained committed to supporting the country’s development efforts,” said Gwyn Lewis.

Speaking on behalf of the government, Khalilur Rahman, High Representative for the Rohingya issue and National Security Adviser, commended the UN’s continued humanitarian and development assistance, calling it a “vital force in Bangladesh’s progress.”

Mahfuz Alam, Adviser to the Interim Government and a student leader, praised the UN’s principled stance, saying, “The UN has consistently upheld the rights and aspirations of the people of Bangladesh — a true example of international solidarity.”

During the event, long-serving UN officials were honored, and newly appointed staff members were introduced. UN volunteers working across Bangladesh’s development programs were also recognized for their contributions.

As part of the global “UN80” initiative, the celebration called for a new, inclusive, and accountable multilateral system, envisioning a more effective and responsive United Nations for the future.

The COP29 Presidency wrapped up two constructive weeks at the Bonn Climate Conference, strengthening the groundwork for COP30 and advancing the Baku-to-Belém roadmap.

Although discussions began with a deadlock over the agenda, the Presidency held extensive consultations to bridge divisions among Parties. These efforts ultimately led to consensus on the SB62 agenda, allowing progress on critical climate mandates for the year ahead.

During the conference, the COP29 team actively engaged in bilateral meetings, delivered keynote addresses, and worked closely with government leaders, the private sector, and financial institutions. The Presidency also hosted inclusive dialogues with Parties and non-Party stakeholders on mobilising $1.3 trillion in climate finance by 2035, while Troika partners convened to explore ways to raise ambition in the next cycle of national climate plans.

In parallel, the Presidency reaffirmed support for Brazil’s COP30 preparations. A key meeting between Azerbaijan’s COP29 Operating Company and Brazilian counterparts focused on coordination for the Belém summit.

Bonn became a pivotal platform for the Presidency to urge all countries to accelerate the shift from promises to action, and to submit stronger climate plans that can unlock green investment worldwide.

Amid initial deadlock over the agenda at the Bonn Climate Conference, the COP29 Presidency was invited to assist Parties in reaching a consensus.

On behalf of the Presidency, COP29 Chief Negotiator Yalchin Rafiyev conducted extensive consultations to bridge differences on complex issues, ultimately securing agreement on the SB62 agenda.

With the agenda now finalized, negotiators and delegations can commence work in Bonn, advancing key mandates for the year, including the cross-Presidency initiatives led jointly by COP29 and COP30.

Reflecting on the breakthrough, COP29 Lead Negotiator stated, “We thank the Parties for their constructive engagement and flexibility in finding a path forward. We now look ahead to implementing the Baku-to-Belém roadmap and advancing the next generation of NDCs.”

The Baku Continuity Coalition convened on the sidelines of the second resumed session of the UN-Habitat Assembly on 28 May 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, to discuss progress and plan future initiatives in urban, multilevel, and multisectoral climate action.

Since its establishment on 20 November 2024 during the Third Ministerial and Mayoral Meeting on Urbanization and Climate Change at COP29, the Coalition has made significant strides. Azerbaijan, the chairing country and COP29 Presidency, updated participants on the development of draft Terms of Reference for both the Coalition and the Special Envoy for Urban Climate Action, key components of the COP29 Declaration on Multisectoral Action Pathways to Resilient and Healthy Cities. Preparatory briefings and side events were also held in Geneva, Switzerland, and Bangkok, Thailand, while a meeting with IPCC representatives further strengthened the Coalition’s work.

Looking ahead, members agreed on plans for high-level meetings, including the First Ministerial Meeting in November 2025 in Belém, Brazil, and the Second Ministerial Meeting within the framework of WUF13 in May 2026 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Proposals were also discussed to host a joint pavilion at both COP30 and WUF13 and to align one of the high-level roundtables at COP30 with WUF13’s theme, “Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities.”

The Coalition tentatively scheduled its next virtual meeting for the end of June 2025. The Secretary-General of ICLEI attended the Nairobi meeting, highlighting the growing collaboration between cities, governments, and international organizations.

Founding members of the Baku Continuity Coalition include Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Azerbaijan, Brazil, and the UN-Habitat Secretariat.

The Roundtable on the CAREC Partnership for Climate, Innovation, and Trade (CPCIT) took place on 21 May 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand, alongside the Asia-Pacific Sustainable Trade Forum. Co-chaired by Lyaziza Sabyrova of the Asian Development Bank and Elmar Mammadov of Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the event focused on implementing the COP29 Declaration establishing CPCIT, signed in Baku in November 2024.

Participants explored ways to develop productive capacity in CAREC countries to create innovative, exportable products supporting the green transition, leveraging the region’s potential in critical minerals. Discussions also covered expanding the trilateral green energy partnership between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, establishing Free Green Economic Zones to attract climate-focused investment, fostering innovation through collaboration among governments, researchers, and the private sector, and creating a Regional Fund of Funds to support startup development.

The Roundtable featured presentations from UNCTAD, WTO, and other stakeholders, with participation from government officials, private sector representatives, international organizations, and development partners. The CAREC Program’s 11 member countries—Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, China, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—actively contributed to shaping the partnership’s next steps.

The COP29 Azerbaijan Presidency, in partnership with UNECE, UNEP, and WMO, held a high-level briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva to highlight progress on the COP29 Declaration on Water for Climate Action and to outline upcoming initiatives under the Baku Dialogue on Water for Climate Action. The event brought together representatives from Member States, UN agencies, international organizations, and other stakeholders committed to strengthening the connection between water and climate action.

Water, central to the climate crisis, is often underrepresented in global climate policy despite its critical role in floods, droughts, and growing water insecurity. Launched by the COP29 Presidency, the Baku Dialogue aims to create a sustained, inclusive platform for countries, UN entities, and partners to advance shared objectives.

During the briefing, the COP29 team emphasized the Declaration’s role in mainstreaming water considerations in climate policy, finance, and implementation. Several countries, including Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, Slovenia, and the Gambia, shared experiences and voiced strong support for both the Declaration and the Baku Dialogue.

Elmar Mammadov, speaking on behalf of the COP29 Presidency, said, “Water is not only a climate risk, it is a climate opportunity — and the Baku Dialogue is our platform to act together. This briefing is a checkpoint and an invitation to sustain engagement and scale up ambition toward COP30 and beyond.”

UN agencies highlighted tools and resources to help countries address water-related climate risks. Animesh Kumar of UNDRR emphasized the importance of integrated strategies, data, infrastructure resilience, and early warning systems, while Stefan Uhlenbrook of WMO stressed the need for scientific evidence to guide climate and water actions. UNEP’s Mijke Herthogs underscored the need to transform the Declaration into action that protects water resources and ensures access for all.

The briefing also provided an opportunity for Member States that have not yet endorsed the Declaration to learn more and express interest. The COP29 Declaration on Water for Climate Action remains open for endorsement, and countries and stakeholders can join by sending a Note Verbale or formal letter to the COP29 Presidency at water@cop29.az

On 23 May 2025, Deputy Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan and COP29 Chief Negotiator, Yalchin Rafiyev, led a delegation on a working visit to Mexico.

During the trip, Rafiyev held meetings with Enrique Javier Ochoa Martinez, Undersecretary for Multilateral Affairs and Human Rights at Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Camila Zepeda, Mexico’s Lead Climate Negotiator; and members of the Mexican Council on Foreign Relations (COMEXI), one of the country’s leading think tanks.

In talks with Undersecretary Ochoa Martinez, both sides welcomed the close cooperation between Azerbaijan and Mexico within international organisations and multilateral forums. Rafiyev shared updates on Azerbaijan’s foreign policy priorities, progress in normalising relations with Armenia, and upcoming international events that Azerbaijan will host under various initiatives. The two also discussed joint efforts to combat climate change and exchanged views on Azerbaijan’s COP29 Presidency. Ochoa Martinez commended Azerbaijan’s constructive role in advancing the COP29 process and congratulated the country on the successful results achieved so far.

In a separate meeting with Mexico’s Lead Climate Negotiator, the focus was on Azerbaijan’s leadership at COP29, highlighting the inclusivity and progress of the negotiations. Both sides stressed the importance of sustaining momentum in implementing the outcomes of COP29.

At COMEXI, discussions addressed Azerbaijan’s evolving regional role and its balanced foreign policy in light of new realities in the South Caucasus following the 2020 Patriotic War. The Azerbaijani delegation also outlined the country’s contributions to multilateral initiatives and international organisations. Azerbaijan’s Presidency of COP29 and the depth of its negotiations were widely acknowledged and appreciated.

Building on the momentum of COP29, which delivered landmark agreements on climate finance and carbon markets, Azerbaijan has announced it will once again host Baku Climate Action Week (BCAW) from 29 September to 3 October 2025.

The announcement was made in Baku by COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev and COP29 High-Level Champion Nigar Arpadarai, marking the second edition of BCAW following its successful debut last year.

Highlighting Azerbaijan’s continued commitment, Babayev stated:

“Azerbaijan was honoured to host COP29 and proud of the many achievements. But the climate crisis leaves no room for complacency. Rising temperatures and worsening impacts demand urgent and sustained investment in climate action. As COP29 Presidency, we will continue to champion this cause globally and regionally, while supporting the incoming COP30 Presidency of Brazil in their mission.”

He added that BCAW would once again serve as a platform for business leaders, investors, policymakers, academics, scientists, youth and civil society to exchange solutions and accelerate the green transition.

Arpadarai emphasized the importance of whole-of-society engagement, noting that last year’s event mobilized action across Azerbaijan and the wider region. She also announced new partnerships, including with London Climate Action Week and the launch of the first-ever Rio Climate Action Week in collaboration with Rio de Janeiro.
“These innovative models for climate engagement demonstrate how we can deliver action at scale. We look forward to building on the legacy of COP29 and the networks we have created,” she said.

The 2025 BCAW programme will feature an international conference, along with workshops, roundtables and cultural events. Key themes include:

• Energy Transition
• Sustainable Agriculture and Water Resource Management
• Cities and Built Environment
• Science, Technology & Innovation
• Sustainable Economic Growth
• SMEs and Green Skills
• Youth & Next-Generation Startups
• Climate Adaptation and Resilience

Curated once again by Malini Mehra and supported by international and domestic partners, BCAW aims to consolidate Azerbaijan’s role as a regional leader in climate action.

Further details, including the full programme, will be available at www.bakuclimateactionweek.org in the coming weeks.

On 6 May 2025, the COP29 Presidency held a briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva to review progress on the Baku Initiative on Human Development for Climate Resilience, launched during COP29’s first Human Development Day in November 2024.

Opening the event, Ambassador Galib Israfilov, Azerbaijan’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, stressed the need for integrated, cross-sectoral approaches to ensure climate action benefits people, particularly vulnerable groups.

The session brought together representatives from leading international organizations, including the ADB, ILO, UNESCO, UNICEF, WHO, AIIB, GCF, IOM, IsDB, UNDP, UNIDO, and UN Women. Partners shared updates on their contributions and ongoing efforts to link human development with climate resilience. Countries endorsing the Initiative also reaffirmed their strong commitment.

Concluding the meeting, Elmar Mammadov, Co-Lead of the COP29 Action Agenda Team, presented the roadmap to COP30 in Brazil, reaffirming Azerbaijan’s focus on human-centered climate action and global collaboration.

The Baku Guiding Principles on Human Development for Climate Resilience remain open for endorsement by Parties and stakeholders. Expressions of support can be sent to humandevelopment@cop29.az

The COP29 Presidency took part in the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial in Denmark, joining high-level representatives and global leaders to strengthen political consensus on key priorities ahead of COP30 in Brazil. The meetings provided an important platform to advance the Presidency’s joint mandates, including the Troika’s Mission 1.5 and the Baku to Belém Roadmap to mobilize $1.3 trillion, in close partnership with Brazil’s COP30 Presidency.

Throughout the ministerial, the COP29 President addressed the opening plenary, underscoring the importance of national climate plans as signals for green investment. He also led discussions on climate finance, reaffirming commitment to the Baku to Belém Roadmap, and on adaptation and resilience, where he highlighted the need to operationalize the Loss and Damage Fund and double adaptation finance by year’s end. In sessions on the Global Stocktake Outcome, he focused on practical steps to turn historic commitments into action. Concluding the conference, he called on the international community to remain steadfast in climate action and defend the multilateral system.

The visit also included a series of bilateral meetings with Danish Climate Minister Lars Aagaard, Iraqi Environment Minister and G77 and China Chair Dr. Hallo Al-Askari, and Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO and UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Sustainable Energy for All. The COP29 President further participated in a meeting with King Frederik X of Denmark, COP30 President-Designate André Corrêa do Lago, UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, and Minister Lars Aagaard.

Amid an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, the COP29 President urged Parties not to allow climate change to fall down the global agenda, stressing the urgency of upholding the promises made at COP29 and working collectively to maintain momentum toward COP30.

A high-level side event held during the 81st session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) spotlighted the COP29 Multisectoral Actions Pathways (MAP) Declaration as a driving force for resilient and sustainable urban development.

The session, moderated by Dr. Sangmin Nam, Director of UNESCAP’s Environment and Development Division, convened government leaders, urban planners, city mayors, international organizations, and civil society representatives to strengthen momentum behind the MAP initiative. Launched at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, the MAP Declaration has already secured endorsements from more than 200 stakeholders, including 54 governments and over 100 cities worldwide.

Designed as a multisectoral framework, the initiative links climate resilience with urban health, early warning systems, afforestation, sustainable agriculture, and green jobs. It emphasizes science-based policymaking, access to sustainable financing, and inclusive governance to accelerate the transition to climate-smart cities.

Opening remarks were delivered by H.E. Ambassador Elchin Bashirov, Permanent Representative of Azerbaijan to UNESCAP; H.E. Ms. Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of UNESCAP; and H.E. Ms. Anaclaudia Rossbach, Executive Director of UN-Habitat. All three leaders underlined the urgency of multilateral cooperation to achieve sustainable, climate-resilient urban futures.

Mr. Elmar Mammadov, Co-leader of the COP29 Action Agenda Team, presented innovative aspects of the MAP Declaration, including the Baku Continuity Coalition for Urban, Multisectoral and Multilevel Climate Action. The coalition unites COP presidencies from Azerbaijan (COP29), the UAE (COP28), Egypt (COP27), and Brazil (COP30), in partnership with UN-Habitat, to ensure consistent and sustained urban climate action across successive summits. He also highlighted the launch of the Forum of Climate Smart Cities under the UN Special Program for the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA), a major step for regional innovation and collaboration.

In addition, Ms. Gulshan Rzayeva, Deputy Chief of Staff of Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture, presented the Roadmap to the World Urban Forum 13 (WUF13), to be hosted in Baku in 2026. She underscored that the MAP Declaration will serve as a cornerstone of the forum’s agenda.

The session closed with broad support from participants, who reaffirmed their commitment to advancing urban transformation through the MAP framework. The event marked a significant milestone in the lead-up to WUF13, reinforcing global determination to build inclusive, resilient, and climate-smart cities.

The COP29 MAP Declaration remains open for endorsements. Interested parties and stakeholders can submit formal support to the COP29 Presidency via email at MAP@cop29.az 

The COP29 Presidency has released the Presidency Youth Climate Champion (PYCC) Summary Report for 2024, showcasing the significant contributions of Youth Climate Champion Leyla Hasanova and her team in advancing youth-driven climate action on the global stage.

Written by youth, for youth, the report emphasizes the central role of young people and children in shaping inclusive, ambitious, and sustainable climate policies. It reflects on the achievements of the PYCC throughout 2024, underscoring how youth leadership has been integrated into the wider UNFCCC process and beyond.

According to the report, the COP29 PYCC team focused on five core priorities:

• Enhancing Youth Participation — Ensuring the meaningful inclusion of young people and children in climate decision-making, particularly within the UNFCCC framework.
• Advancing NDC 3.0 Engagement — Elevating youth and child perspectives in the development and implementation of the next round of nationally determined contributions (NDCs), known as NDC 3.0.
• Bridging the Climate Finance Gap — Advocating for more accessible funding for youth-led and child-sensitive climate initiatives, addressing one of the biggest challenges for young changemakers.
• Integrating Youth Perspectives in Peace and Security — Highlighting the intersection of climate action with peace, climate security, and intergenerational equity.
• Promoting Climate Education — Positioning education as a cornerstone for building youth leadership and empowering the next generation of climate leaders.

The report acknowledges that the 2024 accomplishments build on the foundation laid by the COP28 Youth Climate Champion, while also setting the stage for collaboration with the incoming COP30 YCC. This continuity, it notes, ensures that youth priorities remain central across successive climate summits, reinforcing a multi-COP legacy of youth leadership.

“This report captures the vision, energy, and determination of young people who are leading climate action in every corner of the world,” said COP29 Youth Climate Champion Leyla Hasanova, reflecting on the achievements. “Our work is not only about today—it is about safeguarding the future, ensuring justice, and building resilience for generations to come.”

The release of the PYCC Summary Report represents a milestone in institutionalizing youth participation within the COP process. It also signals the Presidency’s commitment to intergenerational equity, recognizing that young people are not only stakeholders but also essential partners in implementing solutions.

As preparations intensify ahead of COP30 in Brazil, the PYCC team expressed optimism about building on 2024’s achievements, strengthening collaboration across youth networks worldwide, and ensuring that climate negotiations deliver for the most vulnerable.

The COP29 Presidency, in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), convened a high-level briefing titled “Baku to Belém: COP29 and COP30”, marking a pivotal moment in advancing the global agenda for green digital transformation.

The session highlighted the COP29 Declaration on Green Digital Action (GDA), first introduced during the inaugural Digitalization Day at COP29 in Baku on 16 November 2024, and charted pathways leading to COP30 in Brazil.

Key speakers included COP29 High-Level Climate Champion Ms. Nigar Arpadarai, Ambassador Guilherme de Aguiar Patriota, Permanent Representative of Brazil to the WTO and other economic organizations in Geneva; Mr. Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of the ITU; Mr. Catalin Marinescu, Head of Strategy and Planning Vision at the ITU; Mr. Elmar Mammadov, Co-leader of the COP29 Action Agenda Team; Ms. Lala Hikmat, team member; and Mr. Pedro Ivo Ferraz da Silva, Coordinator for Scientific and Technological Affairs and Bilateral Relations at Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Discussions underscored the growing role of digital innovation in climate strategies, with the GDA offering a framework to integrate technological solutions into low-emission transition pathways. Speakers highlighted progress in:

• Cross-sectoral collaboration, including synergies with the COP29 Multisectoral Actions Pathways (MAP) Declaration for resilient and healthy cities.
• Strengthening coordination between the GDA process at ITU and the UNFCCC’s Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN).

Since its launch, the Declaration has gained endorsement from nearly 2,000 stakeholders, including 83 national governments, demonstrating broad global momentum. The declaration remains open for additional endorsements.

Participants emphasized the importance of aligning digital transitions with climate goals and ensuring continuity between successive COP Presidencies. Green digital action, officially initiated at COP29 through the first-ever High-Level Roundtable on GDA, was recognized as a critical Presidency-led initiative with long-term potential.

The briefing concluded with an interactive Q&A session, allowing Member States and stakeholders to share perspectives and reinforce collective commitment. The dialogue reaffirmed the central role of digital transformation in delivering effective, inclusive, and sustainable climate action in the lead-up to COP30 in Brazil.

The COP29 Presidency has invited further endorsements of the Green Digital Action Declaration. Interested parties and stakeholders may confirm their support by sending a Note Verbale or formal letter to digitalisation@cop29.az 

At the Palais des Nations, the COP29 Presidency of Azerbaijan, in its capacity as chair of the newly established Baku Continuity Coalition on Urban, Multisectoral and Multilevel Climate Action, convened a high-level briefing alongside UN-Habitat and the World Health Organization (WHO) to highlight momentum behind urban climate initiatives within the UNFCCC process.

The session was moderated by Ms. Lea Ranalder, Associate Programme Officer at UN-Habitat. Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Elmar Mammadov, Co-leader of the COP29 Action Agenda Initiatives team; Dr. Graham Alabaster, Chief of the Geneva Office of UN-Habitat; and Dr. Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Public Health and Environment at WHO. All speakers emphasized the growing recognition of cities and local governments as key actors in global climate action.

Central to the discussions was the COP29 Declaration on Multisectoral Action Pathways (MAP) to Resilient and Healthy Cities, adopted at COP29. The declaration integrates resilience, nature, health, and technology into urban climate planning, while creating strong synergies between the COP’s urban agenda and UN-Habitat’s World Urban Forums (WUFs). To date, the MAP Declaration has been endorsed by more than 200 stakeholders, including 54 countries, 100 cities, and 40 organizations.

Speakers, including Dr. Abdel Khalek Ibrahim (Adviser to Egypt’s Minister of Housing), Ms. Shahd Matar (Deputy Head of Mission, UAE in Geneva), Ms. Gulshan Rzayeva (Deputy Chief of Staff, Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Urban Development and Architecture), Ms. Lala Hikmat (COP29 Action Agenda Team), and Ambassador Antonio da Costa e Silva (Chief International Adviser, Ministry of Cities, Brazil), highlighted the importance of the Baku Continuity Coalition. This unique partnership links the COP27 (Egypt), COP28 (UAE), COP29 (Azerbaijan), and COP30 (Brazil) Presidencies, ensuring coherence and continuity across successive climate agendas.

Updates were shared on flagship initiatives such as COP27’s SURGe (Sustainable Urban Resilience for the Next Generation) and COP28’s CHAMP (Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships), both of which feed into the roadmap toward COP30. These initiatives reinforce the shared vision of strengthening multilevel, multisectoral approaches to urban resilience.

Contributions from partner organizations showcased the integration of smart cities, early warning systems, and sustainable infrastructure into urban climate strategies. Key interventions came from:

• Ms. Tea Aulavuo, UNECE
• Mr. Cyrille Honore, WMO
• Ms. Lin O’Grady, EBRD
• Ms. Kamelia Kemileva, LGMA
• Ms. Cristina Bueti, ITU

Each outlined how their institutions are contributing to resilient urban futures.

The session concluded with broad support from Member States and stakeholders, reaffirming commitment to continuity, collaboration, and stronger urban climate leadership on the road to COP30 in Brazil.

The MAP Declaration remains open for endorsements. Parties and non-Party stakeholders may express support by submitting a Note Verbale or formal letter to the COP29 Presidency via email at MAP@cop29.az 

The COP29 Presidency, in cooperation with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), convened a hybrid briefing at the Vienna International Centre under the theme “COP29 Energy Initiatives and Pledges: Progress and Next Steps.” The event aimed to build on the momentum of COP29, strengthen continuity in global climate and energy engagement, and mobilize support in the lead-up to COP30.

The session gathered in-person and virtual participants from Vienna-based diplomatic missions, national governments, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society. Discussions focused on promoting participation in global energy initiatives, reinforcing multilateral dialogue, and outlining concrete pathways to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy systems.

Opening the session, Mr. Heng Liu, Senior Technical Advisor on Climate and Technology Partnership at UNIDO, welcomed participants and moderated the discussion. Ms. Fatou Haidara, Deputy to the Director General and Managing Director of Global Partnerships and External Relations at UNIDO, and Mr. Rovshan Sadigbayli, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Azerbaijan to UNIDO, delivered opening remarks. Ms. Rana Ghoneim, Chief of the Division for Energy and Climate Action at UNIDO, followed with a presentation.

The COP29 Action Agenda Team, represented by Mr. Elmar Mammadov and Ms. Jala Ibrahimova, along with Ms. Lala Mehdiyeva and Mr. Ashraf Shikhaliyev, Head of International Cooperation at Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Energy, provided a detailed update on the COP29 energy initiatives.

According to the briefing, the Green Energy Zones and Corridors Pledge has been endorsed by 57 countries and 9 non-Party stakeholders. The Hydrogen Declaration has received the support of 63 countries and 15 non-Party stakeholders, while the Energy Storage and Grids Pledge has gained endorsements from 65 countries and 42 non-Party stakeholders.

All pledges remain open for further endorsement. Parties and non-Party stakeholders are invited to confirm their support by submitting a Note Verbale or formal letter to the COP29 Presidency via the dedicated email addresses: storageandgrids@cop29.az , zonesandcorridors@cop29.az , and hydrogen@cop29.az .

The President of COP29 took part in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, joining global leaders and policymakers to address how the multilateral system can navigate mounting global instability while finding common ground on collective climate action.

Throughout the forum, President Mukhtar Babayev engaged with senior officials and ministers, emphasizing the Presidency’s priorities for the year ahead. He underscored the importance of close coordination with the Brazilian Presidency and the UNFCCC Secretariat in advancing the Baku to Belém Roadmap, a process designed to mobilize $1.3 trillion in climate finance.

During the conference, the COP29 President delivered remarks in a panel discussion on climate diplomacy and energy security in a shifting geopolitical landscape. He also held a series of bilateral meetings with key partners, including Mr. Selwin Hart, Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General; Mr. Kairat Sarybay, Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia; Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency; and Mr. Murat Kurum, Minister of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change of Türkiye.

These high-level engagements offered an opportunity to reinforce the message that as the global community looks ahead to COP30 in Brazil, the strength and resilience of the multilateral system will be defined by countries’ willingness to move from commitments to concrete implementation.

The President of COP29 took part in the Samarkand Climate Forum, joining Central Asian leaders and international partners to advance dialogue on climate adaptation and reinforce multilateral cooperation.

In his interventions, President Mukhtar Babayev stressed the importance of preserving the resilience of the multilateral system in the face of global challenges and highlighted the critical role of youth in shaping solutions to the climate crisis. His participation underscored the COP29 Presidency’s commitment to ensuring that climate action remains inclusive and forward-looking.

On the margins of the forum, Mr. Babayev held a series of bilateral meetings with senior leaders and international partners, including Ms. Tatiana Molcean, Executive Secretary of UNECE; Ms. Saldan Odontuya, Minister of Environment and Climate Change of Mongolia; Ms. Rebecca Nadin, Director of the Global Risks and Resilience Programme; Mr. Mohammad Abdullah Abunayyan, Founder and Chairman of ACWA Power; Ms. Megumi Nakamura, Executive Secretary of the Ozone Secretariat; and Ms. Nadia Calviño, President of the European Investment Bank.

Throughout the forum, the COP29 President reaffirmed the Presidency’s priorities for 2025, emphasizing the need to move decisively from commitments to implementation following the historic outcomes achieved in Baku. He also expressed full support for the incoming COP30 Presidency, stressing the importance of continuity and ambition on the road to Brazil.

The COP29 Presidency participated in the Petersberg Climate Dialogue, joining high-level representatives from around 40 countries to advance discussions on concrete steps to address the climate crisis and reinforce confidence in the multilateral climate system.

In his interventions, COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev highlighted the Presidency’s priorities for the year ahead, stressing the importance of close cooperation with the COP30 Presidency of Brazil. He underlined the significance of the Baku-to-Belém Roadmap as a pathway for delivering on commitments and mobilizing action ahead of the next UN Climate Conference.

The President delivered an address to the plenary on the stepping stones toward COP30 and co-led a roundtable with the Brazilian Presidency and UNFCCC Constituencies, underscoring the shared responsibility of governments and stakeholders to turn promises into action.

On the margins of the conference, Mr. Babayev engaged in a wide range of bilateral meetings with senior ministers and officials, including representatives from Türkiye, Japan, Nepal, China, Singapore, Slovenia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Denmark, South Africa, and the UNFCCC Secretariat. These exchanges served as an opportunity to strengthen partnerships, align priorities, and ensure coherence across the international climate agenda.

The Petersberg Dialogue concluded with renewed momentum for global cooperation. The COP29 Presidency emphasized that as the international community looks ahead to COP30 in Brazil, the credibility of the multilateral system will depend on demonstrating tangible progress in implementing climate commitments.

The COP29 Presidency has warmly welcomed the adoption of a significant Joint Statement by the Network of Climate-Vulnerable Countries Affected by Conflicts or High Humanitarian Needs, following the Network’s First Strategy Meeting held in Abu Dhabi on 26–27 February 2025.

Organized by the COP29 Presidency and hosted by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the meeting convened high-level representatives from climate-conflict-vulnerable countries, international organizations, and financial institutions. Participants discussed practical measures to unlock climate finance and strengthen national capacities, with the goal of addressing the compounded challenges of environmental vulnerability and conflict.

The resulting Joint Statement underscores urgent objectives, including targeted financing, transparent policy frameworks, and coordinated actions. It also sets out a roadmap for joint initiatives, including the development of scalable pilot projects to deliver tangible results.

The COP29 Presidency received recognition from fellow State Parties for its leadership in advancing the cause of vulnerable countries, particularly through the Baku Call on Climate Action for Peace, Relief, and Recovery, and its operational arm, the Baku Climate and Peace Action Hub (Baku Hub). The Joint Statement highlights the Baku Hub as the first concrete mechanism in the history of climate diplomacy designed to facilitate action on identified solutions for climate-vulnerable and conflict-affected countries.

The COP29 Presidency also welcomed the Network’s commitment, alongside donor countries and stakeholders, to sustain momentum ahead of key international forums in 2025, including high-level climate and development summits. Reaffirming its dedication to collaboration, the COP29 Presidency emphasized that the Baku Hub will continue to serve as a platform for supporting the Network, strengthening national capacities, and promoting joint action under the vision of “Solidarity for a Green World.”

The COP29 Presidency participated in the Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) Conference, the premier international forum for leaders and UN officials to explore ways to channel capital toward sustainable energy solutions.

At the summit, the COP29 Presidency engaged with representatives from government, private sector, and philanthropic organizations, highlighting the urgent need to accelerate the global clean energy transition. Emphasis was placed on the pivotal role of climate finance in enabling sustainable energy deployment worldwide.

COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev delivered an address to the opening plenary, underscoring the critical importance of sustainable energy in driving global progress. He also spoke during a panel discussion with the COP30 Presidency, focusing on the roadmap toward Belém COP30, and the collaborative steps needed to advance international energy goals.

On the sidelines of the conference, President Babayev held several high-level bilateral and multilateral meetings. These included engagements with Mr. Selwin Hart, UN Secretary-General’s Special Adviser on Climate Action; Mr. Simon Stiell, UNFCCC Executive Secretary, alongside COP30 President Designate Mr. André Aranha Corrêa do Lago; Ms. Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO and UN Special Representative for SEforALL; Ms. Mafalda Duarte, Executive Director of the Green Climate Fund; Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados; and representatives from CARICOM, including Dr. Armstrong Alexis and Dr. James Fletcher.

Through these discussions, the COP29 Presidency reaffirmed the importance of the COP process in delivering tangible outcomes for people worldwide, even amid challenges facing the multilateral system. The conference underscored COP29’s continued commitment to advancing global clean energy solutions and strengthening international collaboration on climate finance.

The COP29 IT Department has been recognized with the Cisco Sustainability Leader Award for its innovative contributions to sustainable development and advanced technology solutions. Marking a historic milestone, the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company became the first organization in Azerbaijan to receive this distinguished accolade.

The award ceremony took place at Cisco Live in Amsterdam, a premier technology event hosted by global networking leader Cisco. COP29 Azerbaijan was selected for its exemplary work in establishing the ICT infrastructure for the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29), showcasing how high-tech innovation can advance sustainability.

The award was accepted on behalf of COP29 by Javid Huseynov, Director of the ICT Department, together with Aykhan Satiji and Vusal Shahbazov. The COP29 team also participated in a panel discussion titled “Building Network Infrastructure for Sustainability: Cisco and UN COP29”, alongside Cisco executives Adele Trombetta, SVP and GM of Customer Experience EMEA, and Mary de Wysocki, SVP and Chief Sustainability Officer. Other notable recipients of the Cisco Sustainability Leader Award included T-Systems, SAP, STC, CORE42, Sykehuspartner, and Paris 2024.

Cisco Live, held from February 9 to 14, 2025, brought together technology professionals, IT leaders, and engineers from around the world. Nearly 80 representatives from Azerbaijan’s public and private sectors participated, including members of the COP29 IT Department, highlighting the country’s achievements in delivering an internationally recognized ICT infrastructure in a remarkably short timeframe.

In addition to winning the Cisco Sustainability Leader Award, the COP29 ICT team was also named a finalist for Cisco’s Sustainability Changemaker Award, placing them alongside global leaders such as Adidas, Garanti BBVA, and Red Sea Global.

This recognition underscores Azerbaijan’s growing reputation as a hub for technology-driven sustainability and innovation, demonstrating how digital solutions can support global climate action.

COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev took part in the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Tanzania, a historic gathering aimed at driving forward the ambitious goal of providing electricity access to 300 million people across the continent by 2030.

Over two days, governments, private sector leaders, and development partners joined forces with major multilateral development banks, including the World Bank, African Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and the OPEC Fund. Collectively, they pledged more than $50 billion to accelerate the Mission 300 project, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing Africa’s energy transformation.

In his interventions, Mr. Babayev emphasized the crucial role of commitments made under the COP29 process, particularly the Baku Finance Goal, which seeks to mobilize $1.3 trillion in climate finance, and the Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge, which aims to increase global energy storage capacity sixfold by 2030. He highlighted how these initiatives could directly support Africa’s push for clean, reliable, and affordable energy access.

During the summit, the COP29 President spoke at a high-level panel on the role of international partners in Africa’s energy transition, stressing the importance of aligning global financial commitments with the continent’s rising clean energy needs. He also held a series of bilateral meetings with senior leaders, including UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank President Jin Liqun, Islamic Development Bank President Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, and energy industry leaders. Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration and ensuring that finance and technology reach the communities that need them most.

The World Bank committed $22 billion, while the African Development Bank pledged $18.2 billion through concessional loans. The Islamic Development Bank made its largest contribution yet, with $2.65 billion earmarked directly for Mission 300, while the AIIB and the OPEC Fund each pledged $1 billion. These announcements marked one of the most significant financial mobilizations for energy access in Africa to date.

The COP29 Presidency underscored that the active involvement of African governments was pivotal to the success of the Baku negotiations. By engaging in Tanzania, Azerbaijan reaffirmed its commitment to elevating Africa’s priorities within the global climate agenda and ensuring that the momentum achieved at COP29 translates into tangible progress on the ground.