Baku, Azerbaijan, November 11 — Australia is renewing its commitment to climate action as the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) kicks off in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11-22. Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Josh Wilson has arrived in Baku to represent Australia at the first week of the summit, a gathering of global leaders focused on combating climate change under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Wilson will speak at several high-level events on Australia’s climate initiatives and clean energy transformation goals. In particular, he is set to deliver remarks at a Ministerial roundtable on increasing renewable energy and improving energy efficiency.
Representing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, he will also attend the World Leaders Climate Action Summit and participate in a high-level roundtable on energy to advance climate mitigation efforts. Wilson’s schedule includes a panel on Pacific Climate Change Champions, aimed at amplifying Pacific voices and enhancing strategic engagement at COP29.
The second week will see Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen leading the Australian delegation, further emphasizing Australia’s dedication to addressing climate change. Bowen’s arrival will underline Australia’s goal to support global efforts in reducing emissions and tackling severe climate impacts.
“Scientists expect 2024 to surpass last year as the hottest on record, and climate change has already caused more frequent and intense storms and extreme temperatures,” Wilson stated, reiterating Australia’s commitment to collaborative global solutions.
“Pacific nations are particularly vulnerable to climate change, and Australia is determined to work with them and other nations toward sustainable outcomes.”
COP29 follows a recent visit to Australia by COP29 President-Designate Mukhtar Babayev. During his stay, Babayev met with Australian officials, including Chris Bowen, and discussed the critical role of climate finance in keeping the global temperature increase within the 1.5C threshold. He also met with Dr. Mike Freelander MP and Hon. Benjamin Cameron Franklin, fostering further collaboration on climate resilience between the two nations.
With a focus on supporting vulnerable countries and achieving ambitious climate goals, COP29 aims to strengthen international partnerships and set a course for a sustainable future. The summit underscores the collective effort required to address climate change and marks a critical step in global cooperation and progress toward environmental resilience.
