UNDP official highlights Azerbaijan's climate adaptation achievements at COP29

Marcos Neto, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Policy and Program Support Office of the UN Development Program (UNDP), praised Azerbaijan's efforts in climate adaptation during an event titled "Resilience Measures for the Caucasus Mountains and Its Surroundings: National Adaptation Plans (NAP) and Regional Approaches," held within the framework of COP29.

Speaking at the event, Neto congratulated the government of Azerbaijan on submitting its national adaptation plan to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), describing it as a significant milestone. He acknowledged the critical role of Azerbaijan-UNDP collaboration in advancing adaptation to climate change and reducing carbon emissions.

"In the framework of the partnership with the government of Azerbaijan, important work is being done in the direction of the integration of the renewable energy strategy, increasing energy efficiency, and protecting biodiversity through fundamental approaches. It is very important to take measures against the risks caused by climate change, especially in mountain ecosystems and sensitive communities," said Neto.

He also emphasized the global financial gap in addressing climate change adaptation, noting that developing countries require at least $250 billion annually for adaptation measures, while current international financial flows fall significantly short.

"UNDP works together with the UN system to strengthen the fight against climate change and expand adaptation measures until 2025. A strategic approach at the national and regional level will contribute to the implementation of adaptation measures on a larger scale," he added.

Since 2017, UNDP has provided technical support to 42 countries through the Green Climate Fund, assisting them in developing their national adaptation processes. Neto commended Azerbaijan's progress in presenting its national adaptation plan and stressed the need for mobilizing financial resources to ensure the success of climate adaptation efforts.

"Together, we can build a sustainable and resilient future to meet the challenges posed by climate change," he concluded.