Yunus expected to attend COP29 in Baku

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus is set to attend the COP29 Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, this November, where an estimated 32,000 participants will converge to address the critical issue of climate finance.

According to a senior official from the foreign ministry, Prof Yunus is expected to be in Baku during the second week of November. The 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) will take place from November 11 to 22.

COP29 is viewed as a crucial opportunity to intensify global efforts to combat the climate crisis.

With rising global temperatures and increasing extreme weather events affecting populations worldwide, the summit aims to unite leaders from governments, businesses, and civil societies to forge actionable solutions.

A significant focus of COP29 will be on climate finance, as trillions of dollars are necessary for countries to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and safeguard lives and livelihoods against the escalating impacts of climate change, as highlighted by the United Nations.

The conference will also provide a platform for countries to present their updated national climate action plans under the Paris Agreement, which are due by early 2025.

These plans aim to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels and serve as investment strategies to advance the Sustainable Development Goals.

On Tuesday, non-resident ambassador of Azerbaijan to Bangladesh, Elchin Huseynli, met with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at the state guesthouse Jamuna in Dhaka.

Their discussions included the upcoming COP29 Summit, energy, trade, business cooperation, and a proposed air services agreement between the two nations.

Ambassador Huseynli emphasised the importance of strengthening trade ties, expressing Azerbaijan's interest in exploring new opportunities for expanding business collaborations.

He also mentioned that a foreign office consultation took place in Baku in June, and Azerbaijan is eager to finalise an air services agreement with Bangladesh.

Prof Yunus referred to Azerbaijan as "a good friend" and expressed a desire for increased business and trade between the two countries.

He also reminisced about his longstanding relationships with the Azerbaijani people, leadership, and universities.