Jeyhun Bayramov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, addressed the 3rd European Conference on Azerbaijani Studies held in Valletta, Malta.
During his speech, the minister provided insights into Azerbaijan’s COP29 Presidency, the country’s initiatives in energy security, transport and communications, as well as post-conflict situation in the region.
Highlighting numerous initiatives and significant events held at COP29, the minister mentioned the adoption of the Baku Financial Goal, which tripled finance to developing countries, from the previous goal of USD 100 billion annually, to USD 300 billion annually, as well as the conclusion of negotiations on Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, and the operationalization of Fund for responding to Loss and Damage, as the most essential accomplishments of Azerbaijan`s Presidency.
Minister Bayramov also elaborated on nine international initiatives led by Azerbaijan, which have garnered widespread interest and participation from various countries. These initiatives address underrepresented aspects of climate change and emphasize the importance of global cooperation.
Despite a systematic smear campaign against Azerbaijan, often citing its status as a “oil and gas country,” the successful hosting of COP29 was recognized as a crucial contribution to global climate action.
Bayramov also detailed the participants on Azerbaijan`s renewable energy and projects implemented in the liberated territories.
Bayramov also addressed the development of the Middle Corridor and the growing volume of commodities transported through Azerbaijan, emphasizing the need to harness possibilities in transportation and communication.
He also spoke of the discussions held at the 31st OSCE Ministerial Council, as well as current challenges and prospects within the organization.
Bayramov provided an update on the post-conflict situation, including large-scale reconstruction in liberated territories, challenges posed by landmine contamination, measures to clarify the fate of missing persons and Azerbaijan-Armenia normalization process. He noted that Armenia’s continued territorial claims in its Constitution threaten the peace agenda, despite progress in the draft peace agreement and border delimitation discussions.