World leaders gathered at the annual United Nations climate negotiations in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. Although major names and representatives from powerful countries were missing, COP29 in 2024 took place in an atmosphere reminiscent of World Chess Championship finals rather than earlier, more renowned events.
Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev opened the summit by attacking Armenia, Western media, and climate activists, defending the country's history in the oil and gas industry. He referred to the United States as the world's leading oil producer to counter criticisms.
Despite the absence of leaders from the thirteen main carbon dioxide emitting countries, the summit is expected to focus on climate financing and finding ways to help less developed nations move away from fossil fuels. Negotiations are on amounts of money ranging from 100 billion dollars annually to 1.3 trillion.
Antonio Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, reminded the present leaders of the climate challenges facing the planet, highlighting the importance of a transition to green energy. Although the lack of representatives from China and the United States was noted, leaders from small island countries and African nations actively participated in the summit.
In an attempt to maintain hope, Guterres mentioned that the clean energy revolution is already underway. Despite the absence of certain leaders and the focus on financing, COP29 is expected to make progress in key discussions about climate change and the transition to a more sustainable economy.
