Deputy Minister of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Chief Executive Officer of COP29, Elnur Soltanov interviewed by APA News Agency
– What is Azerbaijan's preparations for COP29?
– There should be a four-dimension preparation process for COP. The first is the subject of negotiations, the second is the operational agenda of the COP Presidency, the third is the correct coverage of both of these - communication, and the fourth is logistics. The negotiation topic is the most critical aspect, and its points are provided to Azerbaijan by the UN Climate Change Secretariat. There are three climate agreements associated with COPs: the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and two agreements derived from it (the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement). Currently, the world is experiencing the problem of global warming, caused by the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere due to human activity. We need to reduce and eliminate these greenhouse gases (mitigation) to control temperature rise, and at the same time, take steps for adjusting (adaptation) to temperature increases. Therefore, the main topics of the COP are mitigation and adaptation. Since the 1850s, developed countries, which have been responsible for emitting the most greenhouse gases due to their economic growth, emphasize mitigation. Developing countries, on the other hand, focus more on adaptation, reasoning that we are facing the consequences of a problem we didn’t cause, and thus, those responsible should provide funding to us. However, both aspects are crucial: ultimately, emissions of greenhouse gases must be reduced, or the world will lose control. At the same time, countries where the consequences are already spiraling out of control–primarily those with minimal responsibility for emissions—should receive assistance for adaptation.
The three climate agreements I mentioned above impose obligations on the parties in terms of mitigation and adaptation. The purpose of COP conferences is to achieve a solution to the problems that arise while implementing these agreements. Therefore, the negotiation process is the backbone of this effort, and decisions that are taken are based on consensus. There are 198 parties to the climate change agreement, and all must agree for decisions to be made. The UN Climate Change Secretariat oversees these agreements and their implementation. Taking into account the decisions made and not made in the previous COPs, the Secretariat turns the problems to be solved into mandates and gives them to the host country. The host country, in collaboration with the Secretariat, creates conditions for making decisions in the direction of solving these problems. Hence, negotiations are the most critical issue. In these processes, Azerbaijan is not the decision-making body but serves as a transparent, creative, and inclusive host, facilitating the negotiations. The decision-making authority rests with the parties that have signed the agreements (hence the name Conference of Parties, “COP” being abbreviated from this English term). Azerbaijan must host and provide a certain level of leadership to ensure the process is conducted as efficiently as possible.
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Returning to your question, our country is managing, coordinating, and leading the negotiation process in a procedural sense quite successfully. There are many examples of this. For instance, we proposed some original ideas to advance the processes related to the Biennial Transparency Reports (BTR). We ensured the implementation of activities for document preparation in various regions together with several countries. Later, when disagreements arose among countries on the topic of losses and damages, we resolved them creatively. We brought the parties together multiple times, creating a conducive environment for negotiations in Azerbaijan, etc.
The second issue is the action agenda. Here, we have presented the 14+2+2 initiative. Fourteen initiatives come from the COP29 Presidency, two from our High-Level Champion, and two from the Youth Climate Champion. Unlike the negotiations, the topics on the action agenda are entirely Azerbaijan's initiatives and do not require consensus. "Action" supports the "Negotiations" while also safeguarding them. The choice of words is intentional—while the outcome of negotiations may be uncertain, there is no reason why action should not produce results. The justified view of the global community and climate activists is that negotiations will take their course, but every year we must take at least one step forward. The action agenda is a set of initiatives born from this philosophy and vision.
– How have Azerbaijan's initiatives been accepted?
– Azerbaijan has introduced initiatives that have created significant resonance on the activity agenda. For the majority of our initiatives, we have prepared permanent declarations and documents, and they have already been announced as open for signing. One of the key points here is that these initiatives are not limited to November of this year but are intended to be institutionalized and continued in the future, turning COP29 and Azerbaijan's contribution to solving climate issues into a lasting legacy. This is the goal.
– What can be said about the third issue, that is, communication?
– The goal of communication is the calibrate media relations to achieve results in climate negotiations. While informing both domestic and international audiences is valuable in itself, the ultimate objective in all cases is to achieve outcomes in the negotiations. Our vision is that ambitious climate action documents must be put forward, and in parallel with this, ambitious climate financing should be provided. Both processes are parallel in terms of importance and priority. All of this must be carried out in solidarity. Solidarity creates a solid conceptual foundation for the processes. Solidarity means collective action. Without this, solving the climate issue is impossible because the world shares one atmosphere. Even if a country with a large economy does not participate in climate solutions, the efforts of other countries become meaningless. Even if others reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero, the emissions from a single large country can still cause significant problems. Therefore, collective action is essential. Solidarity also means the fair distribution of responsibilities and supporting countries with fewer resources in climate actions. Without assistance, African countries, less developed nations, and small island states may fall behind, losing their place in the group, club, or collective. The essence of our slogan is: Let’s show solidarity for a green world. Our communication strategy integrates all these issues and is aimed at ensuring the right signals are sent to achieve this outcome.
– You would also touch on the importance of logistics.
– It involves the creation of physical infrastructure, managing visas, transportation, and food, it is a vast area. Let me give a small example. The stadium where the COP conference will be held will generate a certain carbon footprint. We need to minimize this and, if possible, eliminate it. For instance, special care must be taken to use local food, as it reduces fuel consumption for transportation. The electricity powering the venue should come from green sources, and so on. However, among the four key areas we mentioned, Azerbaijan's greatest expertise lies in logistics. Our steps in the field of logistics are truly commendable. It is sometimes said that other countries have two years to prepare for COP, but we only have one year. The biggest challenge here is logistics; for other issues, one year is enough to build momentum. But creating massive infrastructure and solving transportation, food, accommodation, and visa issues in less than a year was the most difficult part. In this area, Azerbaijan shows outstanding performance.
– In what way is the UN supporting Azerbaijan to organize this event?
– The UN's budget is formed through funding from member states, and like all public organizations, it faces financial challenges. Specifically, the negotiation process is conducted jointly with the UN, meaning we are working shoulder-to-shoulder with them. Many decisions are made collaboratively, and the relations are regulated through agreements. The blue zone, which will be established within the event area, will be under the UN’s jurisdiction. Even security matters within the "Blue Zone" fall under the responsibility of the UN's specialized body.
Even the list of media organizations that will cover the processes here is compiled by the UN, which grants or denies accreditation to them. If anyone has objections on this matter, they should not be directed to the Azerbaijani side. The same logic applies to climate activists. Of course, Azerbaijan has granted them these rights within the framework of its sovereign decision-making authority, but the tradition of COP events has generally formed this way. We are pleased with our cooperation with the UN. However, Azerbaijan is, of course, the driving force.
The COP is not just an event that will happen in November. The COP is a global climate negotiation process, but its most intense, final phase will take place in November. Before COP-29, many decisions should have been made so that the momentum to be created, and the compromises to be made, would determine the success of the last stage. The issues are so complex that decisions cannot be made within 2 weeks. It is not easy to reconcile the national interests of 198 countries in making decisions that will affect the redrawing of geo-economic and geo-political maps, the results of which will be measured in trillions of dollars.
In these processes, our unconditional contributions to the world are significant, but Azerbaijan is not just engaged in philanthropy. Part of the infrastructure created is provided to users for a fee. The arrival of thousands of tourists to our country, based on this, will have a positive impact on the number of tourists in the future and the on-the-spot study of investment opportunities in our country, will create a long-term positive dynamic economically.
Secondly, tens of thousands of our civil servants, companies, civil society, youth, and women are involved in this process. The experience gained by these people, who are leading one of the world's most fateful issues, is invaluable.
Thirdly, Azerbaijan will gather considerable political dividends from these processes, which we will convert into value for our country in various topics in the future. Of course, successfully concluding such an important process will be a matter of national pride for our society and state as a whole.
– What is the expected number of guests coming to Azerbaijan for COP-29, and is there infrastructure in place to accommodate them?
Historically, since 1995, COPs have had an average of 10,000 participants. In 2009 in Copenhagen and 2015 in Paris, this number reached around 30,000. In the last 3-4 years, it has risen again to 30,000. At the most recent COP held in Dubai, the number of guests was around 60,000 to 100,000was historically unprecedented. We expect around 40,000 to 50,000 guests. However, there are other factors to consider. Will only registered participants be counted, or will family members and visitors attending related events also be included? This could affect the total count. As we have mentioned, COPs are a climate negotiation process, where it is sometimes stated that an excessive number will result in deviating from the main goal. In all cases, Azerbaijan is ready to welcome future guests.
– How effective will the organization of education in educational institutions, and the construction of special lanes on roads in Baku, Sumgayit and Absheron be during COP29? Oftentimes, we also come across such ideas that residents of Baku may be restricted from going outside for a certain period during COP29. Is there a reason for this?
– No country, no city can be fully prepared for the visit of so many people in such a short period. There is no choice between good and bad from the point of view of citizen convenience. Among the difficult options, the most optimal one is emphasized. Of course, the goal is to minimize inconvenience. There will be certain restrictions. Probably about 100 heads of governments around the world will come to Azerbaijan, and it is difficult to imagine the security measures in connection with this. Therefore, the restriction may ultimately create a relatively more optimal situation than the absence of the restriction. On my behalf, I apologize to our citizens for this inconvenience and want to assure them that the success of this event will return to Azerbaijan with politically, economically, and socially positive results.
– Does Azerbaijan, which will host COP29, intend to revise its goal in the field of transition to green energy and conclude this process sooner?
– The vast majority of our initiatives already existed before the COP. This is an indicator of Azerbaijan's response to the demands of the times by putting forward the interest of its people. Holding the COP in Azerbaijan accelerates our green transition and lays the groundwork for more effective implementation of the processes. Azerbaijan informs the whole world about its activities in this field and invites other countries to similar activities. There are some topics where we are pioneers. For example, we have declared Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur a green energy zone. There are green cities and villages in the world. But the green zone of this size is almost non-existent. Another example can be the Central Asia-Caspian-Azerbaijan-Black Sea-Europe green energy corridor. This is one of the few projects in the world that can be counted on the fingers of one hand, and we are truly an example for others.
Thus, it is stated to the whole world that we are acting as an exemplary country in the subject we are leading the way. At the same time, we come up with original ideas on many topics and pave the way for others. We also show that we are not doing these things because of the COP, thus increasing the legitimacy of our initiatives.
– But, can we say "Azerbaijan is on the verge of a green revolution"?
Azerbaijan was one of the leaders of the traditional energy revolution. Interestingly, our leading, our leadership, and the relationships we created are now becoming a potential value for the transition to the green energy revolution. It is not difficult to transfer the relations we established for the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan Oil Pipeline and the Southern Gas Corridor to the realization of the Caspian-Europe Green Energy Corridor this time. In any case, Azerbaijan is determined to be at the forefront of the green energy revolution.
Processes related to the transition to green energy require large costs. As President Ilham Aliyev said at the Climate Conference in Berlin, climate solutions should not turn against economic development. We must choose climate solutions in such a way that they do not hinder economic development, but on the contrary, promote it. In this sense, we have returned to the main topic of COP29. That is, how do we get expensive climate solutions funded? Because many countries cannot take steps towards climate solutions due to financial problems. In Azerbaijan as well, it is the cost issue that determines the speed of steps taken in the direction of climate solutions and green energy transition. At the core of our green transition policy lies the preference for options that will boost our economy. State funds are always limited. New projects, in this sense, are often financed by redirecting funds from other projects, which is not always considered acceptable. Azerbaijan is currently rebuilding a de facto new country in the image of Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur. The security issue of our country is always on the agenda. Thus, Azerbaijan, other developing countries, and especially countries with a slight impact on global warming, are ready to realize a certain part of the green transition at their own expense, but climate finance will be needed to turn this into a revolution.
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– By the way, my next question is related to this. Azerbaijan is carrying out huge restoration and construction work in Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur, and Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur have been declared a green energy zone. Will Azerbaijan be able to attract additional funds for the reconstruction of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur within the framework of COP29?
– Green energy zone is included in our 14 initiatives. We make this a global initiative and invite others to take similar steps. Transforming into a global initiative can result in the creation of a unique financial environment and give impetus to our activities in Garabagh. At the same time, it should be noted that one of the main points affecting the speed of work in Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur is the mine problem. If landmines are an obstacle to implementing climate solutions, then landmines also are a climate problem. This is one of the messages we share with the world community within the framework of our green energy zones. Within the framework of the process we call "COP ceasefire", we draw attention to the climate action based on the historical occupation by the neighboring state, its consequences, and mine terrorism that continues today.
At the same time, with the visit of so many company heads and state officials to Azerbaijan, meetings with our companies and relevant state institutions will inevitably intensify. Therefore, as a result of the COP, the increase of total investments in Azerbaijan and the redirection of a certain part of these investments to the liberated territories at the discretion of the Azerbaijani state are not excluded.
– In your speech the other day, you stated that the legislative framework in the field of carbon markets in Azerbaijan is almost ready. When can those projects be submitted? In general, at what stage are the works in the field of establishing carbon markets in Azerbaijan?
– The carbon market is one of the most progressive ideas. It seems impossible to solve the climate problem and global warming without a domestic and especially international carbon market. Article 6 of the Paris Agreement is also based on this. But this article more like covers international carbon markets. There are two main types of carbon markets - compulsory and voluntary markets.
The compulsory market is mainly related to the commitments made by a state under the Paris Agreement. A state allocates this obligation to institutions and companies in its territory as a quota, allowing carbon emissions to become a commercial commodity with a price. Thus, market mechanisms are put into circulation, and the companies that exhibit the most effective behavior and implement the most successful reductions can profit from it.
90% of the world's main compulsory carbon market is in the European Union. The remaining 10% is distributed between Great Britain, India, China, and certain states of the United States. The second main topic of COP29 after the climate finance issue, is Article 6, which covers exactly these issues.
The establishment of a voluntary carbon market is much easier. But their quality-reliability is more important than their establishment. The volume of compulsory carbon markets in the world is estimated at USD 1 trillion, and the volume of voluntary carbon markets is around USD 2 billion.
– In general, what are the positive aspects of the oil countries chairing the COP?
– The expression "oil country" has recently been used in a negative context, and I do not accept this expression in that sense. Because the world's economic system is based on oil, gas, and coal. The sale and purchase of hydrocarbons is free, not compulsory. In this framework, all countries are oil countries - either as producers or consumers. Although oil and gas are highlighted, it should not be forgotten that coal is also a hydrocarbon, and it is coal that produces the most emissions among fuels in this category. Azerbaijan's per capita greenhouse gas emissions are lower than the European and world averages. In general, Azerbaijan ranks 70-75 in the world in the system of emissions, and our share is around one in a thousand. For us, being an oil country is a source of pride, because as an oil country, Azerbaijan has stimulated the development of the whole world. It is not morally correct to reach the highest stage of development by polluting the world with greenhouse gases, and then looking back and chastising some developing countries as "oil countries". Everyone should try to contribute to the process as much as possible. This is the criterion. However, it should not be forgotten that we have common but different responsibilities, different capabilities, and different national characteristics, as stipulated by the climate agreements. Green transition is a must, but a fair green transition is the only way. The emissions of the first 6 countries in the world make up 60% of the total emissions, and the emissions of the G20 countries make up about 80% of the emissions. Although we have quite large hard coal deposits, we do not use them. Hard coal is 80% dirtier than natural gas. For comparison, hard coal is used quite widely in the European Union itself. As Mr. President said, the main measure is not the country's possession of oil and gas, but the steps they take in the direction of the green transition, and their contribution to this process. If we look at it from this point of view, Azerbaijan's climate activities are commendable in the mildest way.
– Sometimes we come across different opinions regarding Azerbaijan, which takes steps to keep oil production stable, and there are those who claim that this is in conflict with the plans for the transition to clean, green energy. Is there a contradiction?
– The climate crisis is so big that everyone's contribution is needed, regardless of their economic profile, oil, gas, or coal. This is our principle as the COP-29 Presidency, as Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan reached its peak in oil production about 15 years ago, and this is already history. Natural gas is a traditional fuel that requires special attention in the context we are discussing. For two reasons natural gas is an indispensable element of the energy transition. First, natural gas is the purest hydrocarbon. Second, natural gas-fired power plants are very flexible. There is currently almost no alternative to offset the shocks caused by renewable energy. In earlier COP decisions, natural gas was given the status of a transition fuel. But the main problem here is that the greenhouse effect created by one kilogram of methane is equal to 28 kilograms of carbon dioxide. That is why methane capture and the prevention of direct release of methane into the air become very important. Natural gas's contribution to climate change must go hand in hand with curbing gas emissions. Azerbaijan also joined the Global Methane Pledge for this. Our largest company, SOCAR, joined the Oil & Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC) and signed the Oil & Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0) document. We are already embarking on some of the most serious, world-leading initiatives to reduce methane emissions. This shows that natural gas is valued by Azerbaijan as an important element of green energy transition in a practical sense.
Let's not forget that Azerbaijan sells its natural gas through pipelines. Natural gas sold by pipeline is based only on long-term contracts between the seller and the buyer. For example, in the case of liquefied gas - LNG, the issue is different, a country with access to the ocean takes its ship to the ocean, and wherever there is a buyer, the ship moves to that port. The issue of doubling the export of natural gas to the European Union should be considered in this context. The European Union is considered the most radical and sensitive party in the world in climate issues. That is, if gas production in Azerbaijan increases, it will happen based on a joint decision with the European Union. This process, which will take place together with the world's most sensitive climate player, will be a behavior aimed at solving the climate crisis. In this sense, Azerbaijan is among the countries that best use their hydrocarbon resources in the direction of solving climate problems.
– To what extent will it be possible to form sufficient financial resources in the world to reduce the impact of climate change?
– This is a very big issue and is the main topic of the current negotiations. Today, the volume of these funds is 100 billion dollars. If the needs of developing countries are taken into consideration, this amount is calculated around 1 trillion dollars. Our goal is to agree on a new climate finance that is ambitious, fair, and takes into account the needs and priorities of developing countries that all countries can agree on.
– At the same time, one of Azerbaijan's initiatives is the creation of the Action Fund for Climate Finance. Will this initiative be realized?
– The issues raised in the Azerbaijan Action Agenda are of a stimulating quality to the topics addressed in the negotiation process. This is what the Climate Finance Action Fund is all about. At the same time, I would like to note that this initiative is not about accepting a special responsibility - there is no such responsibility. It's just one of our attempts, like everyone else, to contribute as much as possible to climate solutions. Currently, this international working group is preparing the working details of this fund. This is no longer the subject of the Paris Conference. This is our attempt to stimulate general processes as an additional activity. Of course, Azerbaijan is ready to contribute here, both materially and in other ways, but others should join as well. Both the amount of the Fund and the form of the Fund's activity will be conditioned by the contributions of other countries and companies.
– It was revealed that the private sector will be involved in the formation of climate finance. Will this process work?
– The climate is currently experiencing a crisis because climate action is not profitable. If it was cost-effective, there would be no need for so many meetings, so many discussions, and so many agreements. Where there is income and profit, the state performs more regulatory functions, for example, to prevent unfair competition, etc. Companies cannot be forced to participate in climate action in the case of it is not profitable. But the known truth is that only the funds allocated by the states will not be enough to solve the climate problems. Therefore, the main idea is that states' limited amount of climate finance should be strategically placed in such a way that it opens the door to private finance. In other words, it is necessary to use the allocated state funds as a driving force. Therefore, one of the biggest questions of our time is about involving the private sector in solving climate problems. In a sense, we are actually trying to accelerate the involvement of the private sector in climate solutions through the political steps of the states. That is, we are trying to create such an environment that green solutions become more profitable than traditional solutions. In such a case, there will probably be no need for political discussions and COPs.
– I want to talk about our country again. To what extent can the work done in the direction of building the necessary infrastructure for electric vehicles in Azerbaijan be considered effective?
– There are two ways in this regard: either the state allocates funds from the budget, or producers and consumers provide it themselves. Considering the prices are high at the moment, if we treat them purely according to the market conditions, the prices will be high and the involvement of the society in the process will be limited. That is, the support of the state is needed. However, there are dozens and hundreds of other areas that need state support. We must take such an optimal direction that it does not harm the budget, economy, and citizens and leads to the growth of the economy.
In the case of electric vehicles, our state has created serious incentive mechanisms and the result is obvious.
– There were reports that Azerbaijan would cover COP29 participation costs expenses of the small island states. Has our country made a move with this initiative? How many representatives from island nations are planned to participate in COP29?
– Small island states are one of the most unique categories. In agreements, the names of small island states and least developed countries are specifically mentioned. Historically and currently, these countries have had the least impact on greenhouse gas emissions but are the most affected by the problems caused by them. This serves as a litmus test for whether climate action is fair. If we want to conduct a fair process, these countries must be taken into account. Small island nations face existential problems. Their contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions is less than 1%. They are at risk of losing their countries due to a problem they did not create. These are countries that lack strategic depth in economic, geographic, and social terms. A single storm can destroy the economy of an island nation. The most vulnerable link in climate discussions consists of these countries. Azerbaijan also falls under the category of developing countries. We know well what it means to be targeted by colonialism, imperialism, occupation, and a problem we did not create. Because of the values that Azerbaijan holds, we deeply feel the challenges faced by small island states and least-developed countries. Taking on a portion of their participation is a way to express our historical sensitivity within the framework of climate action. Our slogan is solidarity for a green world—this initiative is one of the best examples of turning our slogan into action. A green world is impossible without solidarity. It is our historical mission to involve those who are the most vulnerable and have the least voice in this process.
– Can it be considered realistic to achieve the goals announced by the countries regarding the transition to green energy in the world at a time when major conflicts and wars are becoming more widespread and the Earth and the atmosphere are becoming more polluted as a result of these wars?
– The topic of the COP to be held in Azerbaijan is finance, and the topic of the COP-28 held in Dubai was to diagnose the situation in the world. It turns out that the reality is very bad and the current climate action plans are not leading us to salvation. Current climate action plans are taking us to a 3-degree temperature rise. But the Paris Agreement sets a goal to keep the temperature increase below 2 degrees and, if possible, 1.5 degrees. The outcome of COP-28 is to adapt our climate action plans to 1.5 degrees. It is in this context that the climate finance to be held in Azerbaijan makes sense. New climate action plans are needed, but these ambitious new climate action plans will require more funding. Azerbaijan should take steps in the direction of securing this funding so that the same climate action plans are presented in Brazil. If we continue with current emissions, we will have created enough additional greenhouse gases to exceed the 1.5-degree temperature increase within 9 years. Therefore, very urgent and serious decisions should be made. Without finance, making these decisions will be very difficult.
– Can Azerbaijan's initiative to stop wars during COP29 be effective?
– If human life and human deaths are the subject, climate, like everything else, takes a back seat. But we must not forget that the climate can also be deadly. There is a famous saying in Azerbaijan: Man does not die from heat. More people die from the heat than from the cold. When the ambient temperature reaches 50 degrees, the cooling function of the human body is disrupted and human life is lost. Or, prolonged periods of hot weather, especially at night, prevent the cardiovascular system, our cooling mechanism, from resting, which can push the body to breaking point in people with other health problems. Disasters such as forest fires, floods, and storms also have a share in deaths.
Stopping wars is also important. First, if a 1-hour ceasefire in any place saves even one life, it is a huge success, human life cannot be overestimated. The second point is that as a result of climate changes, resources are limited and their distribution is more likely to become a conflict.
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The third point is that wars produce large amounts of greenhouse gases. Weapons production and energy consumption of military equipment create a serious carbon footprint. In this sense, wars also have a great impact on the climate and the increase in global temperature.
There are many important points in the vector of climate and peace, and the experiences we gained during the occupation of our lands and after their liberation lay the groundwork for us to contribute to the world in this field as well.
– Azerbaijan invited Armenia to the COP29 climate summit. What form of representation of Armenia is envisaged at COP-29? Has there been a positive or negative response to this invitation?
– An invitation has been sent to the Armenian side. We are ready to receive guests at all levels.
– The President of Armenia, Vahagn Khachaturyan, stated that Armenia is trying to sign a peace agreement with Azerbaijan before the 29th session of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which will be held in Baku in November. What is your opinion on this statement?
– No country should exploit COP-29 to advance its own interests. The event's location in Azerbaijan came about with the mutual support of both Azerbaijan and Armenia. It is desirable to strengthen this momentum and establish lasting peace between our countries. However, this should occur through the will of both nations, mutual agreement, and compromise.
– What are your thoughts on the 14 proposals that Azerbaijan will put forward during COP29?
– The response to these initiatives is very positive, and we are receiving significant support. Our proposals are not just about events; they are built on statements and agreements. Our current efforts aim to increase both the quantity and quality of the signatures on these initiatives.
– Today, several countries are beginning to establish military space forces. Will Azerbaijan propose initiatives during COP29 to prevent space from becoming a battleground and to mitigate further pollution?
– In the context of climate, space is interesting for two reasons. First, satellites provide unprecedented capabilities for measuring climate change. It's now even possible to measure the annual growth rate of trees using satellites. The new abilities to monitor greenhouse gas emissions are developing at a staggering pace. Where there is accountability, responsibility is also better defined. In this sense, the role of satellites is undeniable. We must also highlight the achievements of “Azercosmos” in this area. “Azercosmos” is doing significant work to support small island states regarding climate change. However, I am increasingly concerned about the greenhouse gas emissions associated with space activities. Every satellite launched into orbit results in hundreds of tons of greenhouse gases.
– I'd like to know your thoughts on the letter from 60 U.S. senators to Secretary of State Antony Blinken...
– The article that a radical group, that has chosen Azerbaijan as an enemy, writes about Azerbaijan in a newspaper is just as interesting to me as this letter is. In other words, not interesting at all. Still, I took a few minutes to look over the letter, which I can use meaningfully. There is nothing related to climate in it. Those individuals have, for some reason, allowed themselves to be used by a small radical group’s absurd PR campaign, setting aside their own country's interests. It has no intellectual or moral value. It’s too meaningless to warrant our attention. We have much to do, and we are focusing all our efforts on developing climate solutions. Our most significant contribution and response to the world will be the successful outcomes we achieve.
