Azerbaijan, host of last year’s United Nations climate summit (COP29), will deliver its long-overdue climate action plan by September, according to COP29 President Mukhtar Babayev. The oil-rich nation, which has pledged to spearhead a transition to green energy, is among many countries that missed the original February deadline for submitting updated national climate plans under the Paris Agreement.
Speaking to Reuters on Thursday, Babayev said Azerbaijan is developing a comprehensive strategy to lower carbon emissions and align with the U.N.’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C (2.7°F) above pre-industrial levels. “It is very easy to declare something,” Babayev said, suggesting that the delay stems from the complexity of formulating credible and effective programs.
Under the Paris Agreement, all signatories are required to submit Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) — plans that outline their commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These plans must be updated every few years. However, just 19 countries have submitted new NDCs so far, according to the tracker Climate Watch, prompting the U.N. to extend the submission deadline to September 2025.
Green Transition from an Oil-Based Economy
Babayev emphasized that Azerbaijan is serious about its green ambitions despite its legacy as a major oil and gas producer. The country has set a goal to generate 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. It also plans to expand solar capacity and develop offshore wind projects in the Caspian Sea, with an eye on exporting clean energy to European Union markets. “For us, it’s so important to demonstrate how the country with a big oil and gas history has now turned the economy to the green energy direction,” he said.
Momentum Stalling Globally
Azerbaijan’s delay has raised concerns among climate advocates, who warn that global momentum to combat climate change is slowing. Under President Donald Trump, the United States — historically the largest emitter of greenhouse gases — withdrew from the U.N.’s climate framework, and many large corporations have since scaled back sustainability pledges.
The pressure is now on countries like Azerbaijan to restore confidence in the global climate process by showing meaningful progress and leadership.
Looking ahead, Azerbaijan will hand over the presidency of COP to Brazil, which will host COP30 in November. Climate observers are hopeful that Azerbaijan will meet its September commitment and help set the stage for renewed urgency and cooperation at the next summit.
