Azerbaijan, host of COP29, faces criticism over accusations of greenwashing, but the country’s aim is clear: to use this opportunity to bridge divisions, not obscure its history as a fossil fuel producer. In an op-ed, Hikmet Hajiyev, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Policy Advisor, refutes these accusations and calls for a unified approach to tackling climate change.
Azerbaijan’s Role in the Energy Transition
Azerbaijan has been heavily involved in the fossil fuel industry since the 19th century, with its rich oil and gas reserves playing a key role in its economic development. Yet, the country has no illusions about its past. Azerbaijan’s oil and gas revenues have funded infrastructure, education, and healthcare, leading to significant economic growth. Despite contributing just 0.01% of global emissions, Azerbaijan remains committed to energy security in Europe by supplying transitionary gas that has helped prevent the resurgence of coal in some European markets.
Serafin underscores that alternatives to fossil fuels are not yet capable of meeting global energy demand, making the full transition to renewable energy a longer-term challenge.
COP29: A Platform for Collaboration, Not Virtue-Signaling
Serafin questions whether COP summits are meant for virtue-signaling or real solutions. He challenges the logic behind excluding fossil fuel producers from discussions, pointing out that no country — including consumers — is free from the fossil fuel supply chain. He argues that countries should be judged based on their future commitments rather than their historical reliance on fossil fuels.
Azerbaijan seeks to use its hosting of COP29 to promote collaboration and foster a collective approach to addressing climate challenges, not to hide its role as an energy producer.
Renewable Energy Potential: Azerbaijan’s Vision for the Future
Azerbaijan is working towards harnessing the renewable energy potential of the Caspian Sea, with abundant wind energy reserves that far exceed domestic demand. The country has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to connect its wind power to European energy grids via a subsea cable beneath the Black Sea. This project, however, requires collaboration and commitment from all parties involved — from energy producers to consumers — to succeed.
Hajiyev emphasizes that climate change is a global issue requiring joint efforts, and the success of major renewable energy projects depends on breaking down divisions and fostering cooperation between stakeholders.
A Historic Peace Deal and COP29’s Symbolic Role
Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29 was made possible by the country’s peace negotiations with Armenia, which has historically been a source of tension. After years of territorial disputes, Azerbaijan and Armenia have moved closer to a historic peace deal, with Armenia supporting Azerbaijan’s bid to host COP29.
This diplomatic breakthrough, though years in the making, allowed Azerbaijan to prepare for the summit on short notice, and some critics have used this context to accuse Azerbaijan of attempting to “peace-wash” its reputation.
Hajiyev rejects these criticisms, arguing that the success of the peace talks and the hosting of COP29 represent Azerbaijan’s commitment to cooperation and a more peaceful, sustainable future.
Moving Forward: A Call for Collective Action
The final goal of COP29, Hajiyev says, is to push for developed nations to agree on a new climate fund that will support developing countries and help meet global emissions reduction goals. This is essential to address the disproportionate effects of climate change on vulnerable regions while ensuring all countries, regardless of historical emissions, contribute to solutions.
While challenges remain, Hajiyev emphasizes the importance of practical, collaborative action, rather than engaging in empty criticism.
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