At the COP29 climate summit in Baku, President Ilham Aliyev referred to oil and gas as a “gift from God,” defending Azerbaijan’s reliance on fossil fuels against Western criticism. He accused critics of hypocrisy while asserting that other nations should not be condemned for utilizing their natural resources. As discussions on climate change occur, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres advocates for G20 countries to lead efforts. Amid rising European demand for Azerbaijani energy, the dynamics of resource dependence remain contentious.
Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev has characterized the country’s oil and gas resources as a “gift from God” during his opening remarks at the COP29 climate summit in Baku. He denounced criticism directed at Azerbaijan’s fossil fuel dependency, which constitutes approximately 90% of its exports, arguing that the nation has been subjected to a “campaign of slander and blackmail”. Aliyev accused Western media of hypocrisy, pointing out that these critics continue to purchase Azerbaijani oil and gas amidst ongoing discussions of climate change. He emphasized the necessity of acknowledging natural resources as valuable assets while dismissing claims made by environmental organizations and Western politicians regarding Azerbaijan’s energy policy. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the need for global leadership in combating climate change, urging countries, particularly those in the G20, to transition away from fossil fuels despite market demands.
The context surrounding Azerbaijan’s hosting of the COP29 climate summit is marked by the country’s significant dependence on fossil fuels for its economic stability and growth. The summit serves as a global platform for discussions on climate change initiatives, yet Azerbaijan’s heavy reliance on oil and gas exports complicates its position. The nation has faced criticism over its energy policies, predominantly from Western media and environmental advocacy groups. President Aliyev’s remarks reflect a broader defense of Azerbaijan’s economic practices in the face of increasing scrutiny regarding environmental impacts and climate commitments.
In conclusion, President Aliyev’s remarks at COP29 underscore the tensions between Azerbaijan’s economic reliance on fossil fuels and the global push for sustainability. His defense of the country’s oil and gas resources highlights perceptions of hypocrisy among critics, particularly as European demand for Azerbaijani energy rises amidst the geopolitical context of reducing dependence on Russian supplies. The summit continues to be a critical forum for addressing climate change while navigating the complexities of energy production and consumption.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
