Climate changes are profoundly disrupting economies of the developing countries and jeopardising the livelihoods of particularly vulnerable nations and communities, said the Prime Minister of Georgia in his speech at the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku.

“Dear Mr. President, Excellences, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my honour to address you on behalf of Georgia. At the outset, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mr. Mukhtar Babayev, COP29 President-Designate, as well as the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan, for their generous hospitality and for making this conference in Baku an outstanding success.

This event marks a significant milestone as it is the first time that a country from the South Caucasus region is hosting the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. I would like to wish Azerbaijan every success in guiding us towards a fruitful and ambitious outcome at COP29, fostering a collaborative spirit and constructive dialogue throughout the negotiations.

This conference comes at a critical juncture, as climate change emerges as one of the most pressing challenges of our era, demanding the urgent global action and cooperation to confront its far-reaching consequences. Regrettably, along this journey armed conflicts not only lead to profound humanitarian crises but also disrupt and slow the world’s efforts to combat climate change.

Escalating impacts of climate change, including the rapid melting of glaciers and rising sea levels, are profoundly disrupting economies of the developing countries and jeopardising the livelihoods of particularly vulnerable nations and communities. Regrettably, Georgia is no exception in facing harsh repercussions of climate change. In recent years, acknowledgment of the links between human rights and the environment has greatly increased”, - said Irakli Kobakhidze.