UN Secretary General: Agreement at COP29 provides a base on which to build

António Guterres, the UN Secretary General, stated, "Reaching an agreement at COP29 was crucial to maintain the 1.5-degree limit, and countries have responded to that need, Azernews reports.

He expressed his desire for a more ambitious result regarding both financing and mitigation in light of the significant challenges ahead. However, he noted that this agreement serves as a foundation for future efforts.

It is essential that the commitments made are fulfilled fully and promptly, and that promises translate into actual funding. Guterres emphasized the importance of all countries working together to achieve the upper end of this new goal.

"An agreement at COP29 was absolutely essential to keep the 1.5 degree limit alive. And countries have delivered," said António Guterres.

"I had hoped for a more ambitious outcome – on both finance and mitigation – to meet the great challenge we face. But this agreement provides a base on which to build. It must be honoured in full and on time. Commitments must quickly become cash. All countries must come together to ensure the top-end of this new goal is met," the UN chief added.