Azerbaijani envoy says green growth priority

Azerbaijan is poised to host the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) from November 11 to 22. According to a statement, Azerbaijani Ambassador in Amman Eldar Salimov said that Azerbaijan set its priorities to become a "country of clean environment and green growth" amid declaring 2024 as the "Year of Solidarity for a Green World" by a decree issued by President Ilham Aliyev. Salimov said the declaration represents an important step in confirming commitment to the mission, especially since 80% of the world's population suffers from climate change. He added that holding the conference in Baku represents a "decisive" step towards strengthening global efforts to combat climate change. He noted that the conference would bring together the states the United Nations Framework Convention parties, experts, the press, climate activists and representatives of companies and civil society organisations. He said Azerbaijan is committed to environmental protection and climate action and is working to transi tion the country into a green economy. Salimov added that Azerbaijan prioritises combating climate change and its negative effects under the commitments arising from the UN Sustainable Development Goals, noting that Baku aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030 and 40% by 2050, compared to 1990 levels. He said Azerbaijan has proven itself a reliable partner in the energy sector and a responsible member of the international community in confronting global warming despite the country's fossil fuel wealth. Salimov added that Azerbaijan's green growth strategy and green energy projects aim to transform the country into a regional green energy. Source: Jordan News Agency