In Bakou, Minister Khattabi makes a mixed evaluation of COP29 against the background of an alarming climate change and geopolitical crises
The 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which had been extended in Baku since Friday evening, reached an agreement during the night from Saturday to Sunday. Federal climate minister Zakia Khattabi draws up a mixed assessment, notably on components regarding mitigation, gender and human rights.
“In a tense geopolitical context where climate commitments are being severely tested, while the effects of the climate crisis are increasingly devastating, an agreement was necessary. The central issue of this COP29 was to increase climate financing for developing countries. A commitment of $300 billion per year by 2035 was thus made,” the minister stated.
Zakia Khattabi regrets the lack of progress on the mitigation aspect: "We wanted more on mitigation. Negotiations were particularly difficult, but the European Union has managed to safeguard Dubai's consensus. It is regrettable to lose yet another year; next year in Brazil, we will need to double our efforts, where everyone must arrive with nationally determined contributions (national action plans aimed at reducing emissions to keep the 1.5°C limit within reach).”
Finally, the Minister extended her gratitude and praised the dedication of the Belgian delegation: “I want to congratulate the Belgian experts present in Baku. This COP is very likely my last as Federal Climate Minister, and I have been fortunate to rely on such a team over the past years. Their efficiency and expertise have been crucial in these complex negotiations.”
