PM Shehbaz Sharif's Upcoming Visit to Baku for COP29

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing our planet today. As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, world leaders are increasingly recognizing the need for urgent action. In this context, the upcoming 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, known as COP29, is set to be a pivotal moment for international climate policy.

In a significant move, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan is scheduled to visit Baku, Azerbaijan, on 12-13 November 2024, to participate in the "World Leaders’ Climate Action Summit" at COP29. This summit will gather leaders from around the globe to discuss and strategize on climate action, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to combat climate change.

During his visit, Prime Minister Shehbaz will be accompanied by Deputy Foreign Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and other senior officials. On 13 November 2024, the Prime Minister is expected to deliver a key address at the summit, outlining Pakistan's stance on various climate issues. He will also engage in several high-level events and bilateral meetings with other world leaders, fostering dialogue and cooperation on climate initiatives.

Pakistan is poised to play an active role at COP29, hosting several high-level events and roundtable discussions at the Pakistan Pavilion. The country aims to highlight critical issues such as loss and damage, adaptation, mitigation, and the means of implementation. Furthermore, Pakistan will advocate for predictable financing to support the climate goals of developing nations, emphasizing the need for equitable solutions.

In his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz will underscore the historical responsibility of developed nations in addressing climate change. He will call for deeper emission cuts and stress the principle of "Equity and Common but Differentiated Responsibility," which recognizes that while all countries must work towards climate solutions, developed nations bear a greater responsibility due to their historical contributions to greenhouse gas emissions.

As the world gears up for COP29, the participation of leaders like Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is crucial. It reflects a commitment to not only address the challenges posed by climate change but also to ensure that the voices of developing countries are heard in the global dialogue. The outcomes of this summit could shape the future of climate action and determine how effectively the world can respond to one of its greatest challenges.

The upcoming visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz to Baku is not just a diplomatic engagement; it is a vital opportunity for Pakistan to advocate for meaningful climate action. As nations come together to discuss solutions, the hope is that collective efforts will lead to a sustainable future for all, where the impacts of climate change are mitigated, and vulnerable communities are supported.