Georgian Premier Warns of Severe Consequences of Climate Change at COP29

Photo: Agenda.ge

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stressed the urgent need for global action to address the impacts of climate change during his address at the Leaders' Summit of the Small Islands Developing States on Climate Change in Baku, Azerbaijan. 

Kobakhidze highlighted the significance of hosting the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in a South Caucasus country for the first time, The Caspian Post reports. 

He emphasized that COP29 comes at a crucial time, as climate change is increasingly recognized as one of the most pressing global challenges, requiring immediate and cooperative efforts to mitigate its consequences. "This event is significant as it marks the first time a South Caucasus country hosts such a conference," he noted.

Kobakhidze also pointed out that ongoing armed conflicts not only cause severe humanitarian crises but also undermine global efforts to tackle climate change. He highlighted the growing impacts of climate change, including glacier melt and rising sea levels, which are devastating the economies of developing nations and threatening the livelihoods of vulnerable communities. "Unfortunately, Georgia is also facing the harsh consequences of climate change," he added.

COP29, one of the largest and most prestigious climate conferences in the world, is being held in Baku until November 22. This year's event marks Azerbaijan's first time hosting the conference, underscoring the country's commitment to addressing climate change on the global stage.