On May 4th, the third meeting of the Organizing Committee for the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) took place. Samir Nuriyev, Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, delivered a report in compliance with President Ilham Aliyev's directives. He outlined the progress achieved in the preparatory efforts for COP29 during the previous session and the implementation of the Action Plan. Nuriyev highlighted the selection of the COP29 logo and slogan, revealing that the chosen motto is "Let's unite for a greener world!"

The Chairman of the Organizing Committee underscored that both COP29 and the Leaders' Summit are slated to take place at the Baku Olympic Stadium, emphasizing that ongoing efforts are focused on the stadium's design and on-site preparations. Samir Nuriyev highlighted that, on behalf of President Ilham Aliyev, invitations have been dispatched to heads of state and government of UN Framework Convention on Climate Change member countries.

Nuriyev outlined the key stances of Azerbaijan regarding COP29 and climate change issues at international forums such as "COP29 and Green Vision for Azerbaijan", the Petersburg Climate Dialogue, and the VI World Intercultural Dialogue Forum, as conveyed by the head of state.

Moreover, he emphasized Azerbaijan's active participation in significant international events concerning climate change, including the World Bank's Washington spring session and the Petersburg Climate Dialogue. Nuriyev stressed the imperative of thorough preparations for the Bonn climate change conference scheduled for June.

Regarding Azerbaijan's priorities for COP29, Nuriyev indicated that finalization of the Action Agenda of the COP29 Presidency is nearing completion.

He further highlighted the launch of the official COP29 website, extensive coverage of COP29-related processes in local media, active engagement with foreign media, and publication of COP29 team interviews in prestigious international publications.

Nuriyev provided updates on the country's efforts in connection with the "Year of Solidarity for the Green World".

Subsequently, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Mukhtar Babayev, appointed President of COP29, elaborated on the preparatory process for Azerbaijan's presidency of COP29, including the COP29 team's visits to foreign countries and held meetings.

Anar Alakbarov, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, detailed organizational and logistical efforts within the framework of COP29 preparation.

Health Minister Teymur Musayev disclosed the initial list of public and private medical institutions designated to provide medical services during COP29 and announced the involvement of health volunteers in the activities of medical institutions and emergency medical service Call Center.

Milli Majlis Member Sevinj Fataliyeva outlined parliamentary activities related to COP29, emphasizing active cooperation between Milli Majlis and the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

Habib Mikayilli, Deputy Head of the Department of Foreign Policy Affairs of the Presidential Administration and Head of the COP29 Organizing Committee Secretariat, briefed on Secretariat activities, coordination of state bodies, institutional support to the COP29 President's team, and communication matters.

Deputy Minister of Energy Elnur Soltanov discussed Azerbaijan's Nationally Determined Contributions and collaborations with the private sector and youth.

Shabnam Mammadova, founder of the "SmartNation" platform, highlighted the role of innovation and smart technologies in combating climate change.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and chief negotiator of COP29 Yalchin Rafiyev provided insights into initiatives included in the Action Agenda of the COP29 Presidency, discussions with various countries and negotiation groups, and preparations for the negotiation process.

Ulvi Mehdiyev, Chairman of the State Agency for Citizen Service and Social Innovation under the President, addressed the simplification of visa procedures for COP29 participants.

Firuze Sultanzadeh, Chairman of the Management Board of "EkoSfera" Social Ecological Center, emphasized the role of civil society at COP29 and ensuring the participation of environmental NGOs.

The meeting concluded with the assignment of tasks related to the implementation of the Action Plan and other organizational matters concerning COP29.

The third meeting of the Organizing Committee for COP29 convened
The third meeting of the Organizing Committee for COP29 convened
The third meeting of the Organizing Committee for COP29 convened