Simon Watts Heads to COP29 in Baku, Aims to Strengthen Global Climate Commitments

Mr Watts is also set to co-chair the annual Pacific Ministers Roundtable, where he will lead discussions to support a Pacific-led bid for COP31 in 2026.

New Zealand’s Climate Change Minister, Simon Watts, will attend the 29th annual United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, starting November 17. This high-profile event gathers leaders from around the world, all committed to advancing global climate initiatives and accelerating the goals of the Paris Agreement, the international treaty focused on limiting global temperature rise and combating climate change.

“New Zealand is fully committed to meeting our climate targets and reducing the impacts of climate change. Every country has a role to play, and New Zealand will continue to lead by example, pushing for accelerated global action,” Mr Watts said ahead of his departure. He emphasized that New Zealand's active involvement at COP29 underscores the country's dedication to bold, actionable climate policies both domestically and on the world stage.

One key focus at COP29 will be finalizing the framework for a new global climate finance target. Mr. Watts will join fellow leaders in advocating for an “ambitious yet achievable” goal to provide the financial support developing countries need to strengthen their resilience against climate impacts and transition to sustainable, low-emission economies. The Minister noted that such financing is “essential to achieving equitable climate action,” particularly as many vulnerable nations face the brunt of climate impacts despite contributing little to global emissions.

As part of his agenda, Mr. Watts will co-chair negotiations on international carbon markets alongside Singapore’s Minister Fu. These negotiations aim to establish a framework for how countries can voluntarily cooperate and trade carbon credits earned through verified emission reductions under the Paris Agreement. “This framework will allow countries to support each other in reaching their climate targets,” he explained, adding that such cooperative measures are critical to achieving global climate objectives efficiently.

Mr Watts is also set to co-chair the annual Pacific Ministers Roundtable, where he will lead discussions to support a Pacific-led bid for COP31 in 2026. Securing a COP hosted in the Pacific would elevate the region’s voice on climate issues, providing a vital platform to address the specific challenges faced by Pacific nations due to rising sea levels and extreme weather. “The Pacific is on the frontlines of climate change,” Mr. Watts remarked, “and hosting COP31 in the region would amplify the unique needs and perspectives of Pacific nations, reinforcing our shared commitment to climate resilience.”

His travel itinerary includes a stop in London prior to arriving in Baku, where he will meet with New Zealand businesses and insurers to discuss aligning business strategies with sustainable, low-emission practices. This strategic visit aims to bolster New Zealand’s climate finance and green investment strategies while strengthening its position in the global economic transition to a low-emissions future. Mr Watts is scheduled to return to New Zealand on November 24.

COP29, which will run through late November, is expected to generate significant commitments from nations around the world as they work toward more substantial climate action. With an agenda focused on new climate finance targets, regional cooperation, and carbon market mechanisms, COP29 represents a critical opportunity for nations like New Zealand to shape the future of international climate policy and promote meaningful, collaborative climate solutions.