Azerbaijan to Support Travel Costs for Small Island Nations at COP29

Azerbaijan has agreed to cover travel and lodging costs for negotiators from climate-vulnerable small island developing states to attend this year's COP29 U.N. climate summit in Baku. The initiative aims to ensure inclusivity and address rising sea levels affecting these nations.

Azerbaijan has taken a pivotal step by agreeing to cover travel, hotel, and other associated costs for delegates from small island developing states (SIDS) attending COP29, aimed at addressing climate vulnerabilities.

Scheduled for Nov. 11-22 in Baku, the summit will also set new funding targets to help poorer nations cope with climate change. This financial support is particularly crucial for island nations that are highly exposed to rising sea levels.

The offer underscores Azerbaijan's commitment to inclusivity in climate talks, ensuring representation from affected countries. Delegates from around 40 SIDSs will benefit, despite the Azerbaijani government's reliance on fossil fuels and its ongoing efforts to transition to renewable energy.

(With inputs from agencies.)