COP29 Accessibility and Accommodation Details PDF

Accessibility At COP29, accessibility is integral to our commitment to inclusivity. Our team conducts rigorous accessibility checks and provides extensive training to ensure a welcoming environment for all participants. Physical environment We will establish barrier-free infrastructure at the eve...

Accessibility At COP29, accessibility is integral to our commitment to inclusivity. Our team conducts rigorous accessibility checks and provides extensive training to ensure a welcoming environment for all participants. Physical environment We will establish barrier-free infrastructure at the event venue and will offer accessibility wayfinding and on-ground support for easy navigation. Your comfort and accessibility are of utmost importance to us as we strive to foster an environment where everyone can actively engage in COP29 activities. The conference venue will be equipped to accommodate participants with disabilities, ensuring accessibility features such as ramps, elevators, a quiet room, accessible parking and restrooms. Transportation Accessible transportation options will be provided to facilitate travel to and from the event venue. Services An accessibility information point will be available to assist participants, ensuring inclusive access to event information and activities. Wheelchair repair services and prosthetic services will be available in the main venue, including check– up and firsthand technical support. Quiet rooms will be available in the main venue. Accommodation A list of accessible accommodation will be available. Information Sunflower lanyards and wristbands will be available to provide a comfortable experience for participants with non-visible disabilities. Our staff and volunteers are trained to support participants with disabilities and ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. For inquiries, suggestions, or support with accessibility issues, get in touch with the COP29 accessibility team via [email protected] Join us at COP29 Azerbaijan as we advance towards a future where accessibility is seamlessly integrated into every aspect of our work, ensuring that everyone can participate fully and equally! Booking Terms and Conditions - Individual Reservation Policy INDIVIDUAL BOOKINGS (less than 10 rooms) Terms and Conditions Policy When you make a reservation through bnetwork, you agree to accept these Terms and Conditions. 1. Amount Requested Kindly note that a 2% bnetwork administration fee will be automatically added to all credit card payments. In case of cancellation, these fees will not be refunded. The full prepayment of all the nights reserved is requested within 3 days of booking. Your reservation will not be confirmed until the full amount in cleared funds for the reserved rooms is received by bnetwork. If your payment is not received 3 days after the booking date, your room(s) may be released back into the booking system for resale. 2. Accommodation Cancellation Policy Accommodation cancellations must be communicated to bnetwork via email. Cancellation charges will apply as stipulated below: Full cancellation & reduction of stay : - From the reservation date until June 10th 2024, no penalty will apply. - From June 11th to August 5th, an amount corresponding to 50% of the total stay will be kept as a penalty. - From August 6th to September 20th, an amount corresponding to 80% of the total stay will be kept as a penalty. - From September 21st onwards, an amount corresponding to 100% of the total stay will be kept as a penalty. For any request regarding stay reduction, the following conditions will apply : - Until September 20th, 2 nights in total can be cancelled without penalty. - From September 21st onwards, no reduction of stay is allowed without charge. Kindly note that the minimum stay of 6 nights will always apply even in case of reduction of stay. Rooms that are left unoccupied 48 hours after the check-in date will be released back to the Hotel and no refund will apply. Name changes are without restrictions. 3. Minimum Stay Please note that all COP29 hotels have a minimum stay of 6 nights per reservation and per person. Any reservation less than that will not be accepted. Please kindly note that some hotels may require a minimum stay superior to 6 nights. In such cases, this will be indicated in the room rate section of the hotel. 4. Accommodation Invoicing Process bnetwork collects the full stay amount for all reservations. Payments will then be transferred in full to the relevant hotel(s). Delegates will receive an accommodation confirmation upon receipt of the full payment. They will be provided with an official invoice from the hotel - Group Reservation Policy GROUP BOOKINGS (from 10 rooms) Terms and Conditions Policy When you make a reservation through bnetwork, you agree to accept these Terms and Conditions. 1. Amount Requested Kindly note that a 2% bnetwork administration fee will be automatically added to all credit card payments. In case of cancellation, these fees will not be refunded. - A deposit corresponding to 60% of your room block will be requested upfront to confirm your reservation request. - Before August 5th 2024, an additional payment will be requested to reach 100% of your room block. All nights/rooms added from this date will have to be prepaid in full to be confirmed. Your reservation will not be confirmed until the full amount in cleared funds for the reserved rooms is received by bnetwork. In case the requested deposit is not received at the date scheduled, only the nights/rooms paid will be confirmed to the hotel, nights/rooms unpaid may be released back into the booking system for resale. 2. Accommodation Cancellation Policy - From the reservation date until June 12th 2024 , no penalty will apply in case of cancellation. - From June 12th 2024 to August 5th 2024, 40% of the initial number of rooms reserved per night, per hotel, can be cancelled without penalty. A 100% penalty fee will be kept for any additional nights/rooms cancelled. - From August 6th 2024 to September 20th 2024, 15% of the initial number of rooms reserved per night, per hotel, can be cancelled without penalty. A 100% penalty fee will be kept for any additional nights/rooms cancelled. - From September 21st 2024 onwards, a 100% penalty fee will be kept for additional night/room cancelled. You are committed to pay for all the nights/rooms reserved. Rooms that are left unoccupied 48 hours after the check-in date will be released back to the Hotel and no refund will apply. Name changes are without restrictions. 3. Minimum Stay Please note that all COP29 hotels have a minimum stay of 6 nights. Any reservation less than that will not be accepted. Please kindly note that some hotels may require a minimum stay superior to 6 nights. In such cases, this will be indicated in the room rate section of the hotel. 4. Accommodation Invoicing Process bnetwork collects the full stay amount for all reservations. Payments will then be transferred in full to the relevant hotel(s). Delegates will receive an accommodation confirmation upon receipt of the full payment. They will be provided with an official invoice from bnetwork at the end of COP29. Accommodation COP29 Azerbaijan is offering a wide selection of accommodation options to suit every budget. Baku features a range of accommodation options, with hotels and resorts plus serviced apartments available, ranging from 2-stars to 5-stars. COP29 Azerbaijan officially appointed bnetwork as the travel agency responsible for handling accommodation requests for the event, acting as a liaison point with hotels to ensure available rooms are provided to COP29 Azerbaijan participants. The booking portal and additional information for delegates are available at cop29- accommodation.bnetwork.com Larger delegations requiring group bookings should contact accommodation service providers directly and as early as possible to secure preferred accommodations. The booking system guarantees stable accommodation rates, ensuring you can plan your budget without any unexpected changes. Although the official accommodation portal has ensured sufficient room availability for COP29 Azerbaijan, attendees are advised to book their accommodations as soon as possible to avoid limited availability in the weeks prior to the conference. For questions on accommodation please contact bnetwork via email [email protected] Administrative instruction Authority of United Nations security officers The Under-Secretary-General for Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance, pursuant to section 4.2 of Secretary-General’s bulletin ST/SGB/2009/4, hereby promulgates the following: 1. United Nations security officers of the Division of Headquarters Security and Safety Services, Department of Safety and Security, function as agents of the Secretary-General and are authorized to preserve order and to protect persons on all United Nations premises, including temporary premises, and to protect the property of the United Nations. 2. Within United Nations premises, security officers are authorized: (a) To search persons, vehicles, including, but not limited to, cars, bicycles and scooters, and items being carried by persons, including handbags, briefcases or packages. They may also seize property if they have reason to believe that a person is carrying an unauthorized weapon, explosives or other dangerous or proscribed material, or that property of the United Nations is being removed from the premises without authorization; (b) To temporarily detain persons on United Nations premises if they believe that such persons pose a threat to the safety and security of persons or property. 3. Security officers operating both within United Nations premises, or outside United Nations premises in coordination with a relevant host country authority, shall exercise their functions with courtesy, professionalism and respect and in conformity with the applicable regulations, rules, policies and procedures of the Department of Safety and Security. 4. All persons within United Nations premises are required to comply with directions issued by security officers in the exercise of their functions. Refusal to comply may result in temporary detention or removal from or denial of access to the premises. 5. Compliance with and application of the present administrative instruction in no way prejudices the duties, obligations and privileges of staff members. ST/AI/2019/5 2/2 19-19468 6. The present administrative instruction shall enter into force on the date of issuance. It supersedes administrative instruction ST/AI/2018/8 of 9 July 2018, which is hereby abolished. (Signed) Catherine Pollard Under-Secretary-General for Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance Guidelines for the participation of representatives of non-governmental organizations at meetings of the bodies of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change October 2017 Page 2 The secretariat encourages non-governmental organizations and their representatives to liaise with the secretariat during sessions on matters or concerns related to their participation. For further information on these guidelines or on observer participation at sessions please contact: Observer Organization Liaison Unit UNFCCC secretariat Platz der Vereinten Nationen, 53113 Bonn, Germany [email protected] Roles of the secretariat and non-governmental organizations The security of the venues for sessions and meetings of the Convention bodies is the responsibility of the secretariat. The Executive Secretary has the authority to take any action necessary to maintain this security, including denying access to the venues. Non-governmental organizations are responsible for the conduct of each of their representatives. Any behaviour not consistent with these guidelines may have an impact on the participation of the organization and/or of the individual. The secretariat welcomes the full support of participants in maintaining an ambience conducive to intergovernmental discussions and negotiations, and to open and fruitful dialogue between Parties and observers. Page 3 Guidelines for the participation of representatives of non-governmental organizations at meetings of the bodies of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change1 Introduction Meetings of the Convention bodies are convened for negotiations between Parties to the Convention. According to Article 7, paragraph 6, of the Convention “[a]ny body or agency, whether national or international, governmental or non-governmental, which is qualified in matters covered by the Convention, and which has informed the secretariat of its wish to be represented at a session of the Conference of the Parties as an observer, may be so admitted unless at least one third of the Parties present object. The admission and participation of observers shall be subject to the rules of procedure adopted by the Conference of the Parties.” Since the early days of the climate change Convention, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have been actively involved, attending sessions and exchanging views with other participants, including delegates. It is recognized that this involvement allows vital experience, expertise, information and perspectives from civil society to be brought into the process to generate new insights and approaches. Furthermore, the access and participation of observers to the process promotes transparency in this increasingly complex universal problem. Such participation flourishes in an atmosphere of mutual trust which acknowledges respect for others and their opinions, and takes into account the nature of intergovernmental sessions. To promote a harmonious atmosphere supportive of discussions and negotiations at intergovernmental meetings and to encourage the effective participation of observers in the process, the secretariat has prepared guidelines for appropriate conduct during attendance at meetings of bodies of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (hereinafter referred to as UNFCCC) at whatever premises are used for such meetings (hereinafter referred to as venues). These guidelines are not exhaustive but seek to provide information reflecting current practice regarding attendance of observers at sessions and meetings of the UNFCCC. They are in line with those governing NGO participation at sessions of other bodies in the United Nations system. Any infringement of these guidelines would normally be resolved following consultations between the secretariat and the responsible organizations and individuals. 1 These guidelines shall apply mutatis mutandis to meetings of bodies of the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. Page 4 A. Access 1. Only representatives, whose names have been communicated to the secretariat through the designated contact points of NGOs admitted to sessions of the Conference of the Parties, in accordance with Article 7, paragraph 6, of the Convention, shall be registered and receive a badge. 2. Badges issued at registration shall be worn visibly at all times. 3. Participants shall be prepared to verify their identity upon the request of United Nations officials or security staff. 4. Representatives shall normally be at least 16 years of age. Younger representatives may be registered subject to the following terms and conditions: 4.1. Anyone below 16 years of age (hereinafter referred to as the “minor”) nominated by an NGO shall be accompanied by a chaperone at all times. The chaperone must be 21 years of age or older. 4.2. Unaccompanied minors below the age of 16 will not be permitted access to UNFCCC venues. 4.3. Both the minor and the chaperone shall be part of the allotted quota of the respective NGO. No additional badges for either the chaperone or the minor will be allocated or issued. 4.4. At the time of registration of the minor, each chaperone must sign the appropriate Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity form assuring consent of the parent/s/legal guardian/s of the minor and assuming full responsibility of the minor during their custody at the UNFCCC venues. 4.5. Should the minor violate any provision of UNFCCC guidelines for participation, both the minor and the chaperone will face the same consequences. 4.6. Should such consequences result in confiscation of badges, the NGO will not be allowed to nominate additional individuals in place of the de-badged minor and chaperone for the remainder of the conference/meetings. 4.7. Should the chaperone violate any provision of UNFCCC guidelines for participation, the chaperone will face the consequences. 4.8. Should such consequences result in confiscation of the badge of the chaperone, then another chaperone from among the registered representatives of that NGO shall assume responsibility of the minor by signing the appropriate Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity form in order for the minor to continue participation in the conference/meetings. In the absence of a registered chaperone the minor will not be allowed to participate in the conference/meetings and the concerned NGO will be requested to remove the minor from the UNFCCC venues. B. Etiquette and safety 1. Representatives of NGOs admitted to sessions of the Conference of the Parties2 shall cooperate with, and comply with requests and instructions from, United Nations officials and security staff regarding the use of facilities and access to and conduct within the venues. 2 Representatives of non-governmental organizations admitted to sessions of the Conference of the Parties will hereinafter be referred to as non-governmental observers. Page 5 2. No participant shall harass or threaten any other participant. 3. Interfering with the movement of participants at any time or location within the venues is not permitted. 4. The flags and any officially recognized symbols of the United Nations and of its member States shall not be treated with disrespect. C. Participation 1. The participation of non-governmental observers in the proceedings of meetings, and of open-ended contact groups, is governed by rules 7 and 30 of the draft rules of procedure of the Conference of the Parties being applied, contained in FCCC/CP/1996/2, and by decision 18/CP.4. In this context, meetings designated as CLOSED are not open to observers. D. Information materials 1. Only United Nations officials may distribute materials in official meeting rooms. 2. Posters may be displayed only at designated locations, and only with prior permission from the secretariat. The posting of notices for authorized events does not require prior permission from the secretariat, provided that they are posted only in designated locations. 3. Documents may be displayed at the designated locations, provided that there is enough space and that they are relevant to the negotiations. A sample of the documents should be deposited with the secretariat for its library. Documents for display should be clearly marked with the name of the responsible organization. 4. Other materials relevant to the negotiations may be distributed at appropriate locations in consultation with the secretariat. 5. Non-governmental observers shall refrain from using the UNFCCC venues for unauthorized demonstrations, and when distributing written materials shall respect other participants’ social, cultural, religious or other opinions and refrain from personal attacks. Use of cameras and audio/video recording devices by participants at sessions of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and other meetings and workshops The taking of still photographs and making of audio or video recordings within a United Nations-designated conference venue is subject to the guidelines below, and, as required, other guidance or instruction as deemed necessary by the secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) secretariat or United Nations (UN) security1. Taking of photographs Photographs may be taken by participants within the United Nations designated conference venue's public areas, such as lobbies and corridors, and meeting rooms provided that such activities do not disrupt the activities or movements of participants or the security provisions of that area. In the case of professional/commercial photographers accompanying a Party or observer organization delegation, the Party or observer organization is requested to identify such person(s) on their delegation list, and provide information on the purpose of the photographic assignment. Once approved by the secretariat, the professional/commercial photographer will be assisted by UN staff on site to complete their assignments, including an escort by UN staff or security into meeting rooms or other areas should this be requested. UNFCCC media accreditation provide for professional/commercial photographers from media organizations, including any needed assistance or guidance. Making of video and audio recordings Video and audio recordings by participants in public areas, such as lobbies and corridors, may be undertaken provided that such activities do not cause disruption to the activities or movements of participants or security provisions of that area. Those making recordings should, in advance, seek the permission of those they wish to record. The making of audio and video recordings by Party or observer organization delegations during open and closed official meetings and in designated high-security zones is not permitted. The secretariat provides full audio and video recordings for all official open plenary meetings in audio format and webcast on the Internet. All webcast recordings are available from the secretariat's website. In the case of professional/commercial audio, video or film producers and technicians accompanying a Party or an observer organization delegation is requested to identify such person(s) on their delegation list, and provide information on the purpose of the audio, video or film production. Once approved by the secretariat, the professional/commercial photographer will be assisted on site by UN staff to complete their assignments, including an escort by UN staff or security into meeting rooms or other areas should this be requested. UNFCCC media accreditation provide for radio and television as well as film production organizations, including any needed assistance or guidance. 1 These guidelines are intended for government and observer organization delegations and do not change or replace current policies and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Using UNFCCC materials Do you have photos and videos of UNFCCC events that I can use? Photos and videos provided by the UNFCCC may be downloaded and used free of charge on condition that the photos and content are not modified and credit is given. Photos may be downloaded from the UNFCCC Flickr account. Videos can be provided upon request, please see the UNFCCC You Tube channel, and the UNFCCC webcast archive for reference. Please send your request to [email protected]. The Earth Negotiations Bulletin (ENB), an IISD service, provides third party media coverage of UNFCCC events. Please visit their UNFCCC event archives and then find the appropriate photo pages. Their photos are available for use, free of charge, in non-commercial publications with appropriate citation. Their website contains instructions on usage and citation requirements. However, if you are not sure about a particular use, please contact the Director of IISD Reporting Services for permission. May I use the official UNFCCC logo? Use of the UNFCCC logo requires written authorization from the UNFCCC secretariat. Requests to use the UNFCCC logo should be addressed to [email protected]. Can I use the official United Nations emblem? The official emblem of the United Nations is intended for official use and may not be used by persons or organizations outside of the UN system without authorization of the Secretary-General. Please note that anyone wishing to use the United Nations emblem should submit an official request in writing to the Office of Legal Affairs, United Nations. Please visit the United Nations website for more information. Can I redistribute your press releases, or link to them? You may redistribute UNFCCC press releases provided you credit UNFCCC. Alternatively, you may link to UNFCCC press releases from your website. Please note, the UNFCCC secretariat distributes its own press releases and does not post third party press releases on its website. I want to get graphs and data about climate change. What is available and can I use it? All official texts, data and documents are in the public domain and may be freely downloaded, copied and printed provided no change to the content is introduced, and the source is acknowledged. You can find graphs and data in our background publications and the GHG data section of our website. Alternatively, you may wish to visit the IPCC--they have posted numerous scientific charts that can be downloaded in a variety of convenient formats. Hyperlinking Can you link to our organization's website? The UNFCCC website may only link to the websites of accredited non-governmental organizations. A list of those IGOs and NGOs can be found on our dedicated webpages. For detailed information on the documentation needed for seeking admission as an observer organization, kindly visit the dedicated web page. Can I link to the UNFCCC web site or a particular document? Anyone may link to the UNFCCC website or a particular document. If you wish to link to a particular document, please credit the source, be it from UNFCCC or another author. When establishing hyperlinks to our site, please use our full name "United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change"; do not use our acronym UNFCCC. Event participation Are UNFCCC meetings open to the general public? No. Each participant must be properly accredited and registered. Who can participate in UNFCCC meetings, and how do they accredit themselves? There are different participation groups at UNFCCC meetings; these include: Government delegate, duly nominated as part of the official delegation from one of the Parties to the Convention and/or its Kyoto Protocol, or as a delegate from an observer State. Nominations for delegations are received from the respective governments, usually through the National Focal Point. For sessions of the COP and CMP, official credentials are issued by the Head of State or Government or by the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Observers from admitted non-governmental or intergovernmental organizations. Nominations must be made by the Designated Contact Points of admitted organizations using the online registration system (ORS). Please see the civil society web page for more information. Observer from a United Nations organization or specialized agency. Nominations are received from the respective organization. Member of the press. Media participation at UNFCCC Conferences is subject to accreditation by the UNFCCC secretariat. Accreditation is strictly reserved for members of the press who fully meet UN media accreditation requirements. For more information, please visit the accreditation section. Press and media When should I accredit myself for UNFCCC meetings? Accreditation usually opens two months prior to the meeting. It is advisable to apply for accreditation in advance, to avoid any unnecessary delays at the meeting venue. Where can I learn about press accreditation for UNFCCC meetings? Please visit our web section on press and media accreditation (also available in French and Spanish) Please read our FAQs on press accreditation for more detailed information. Can you send me a list of UNFCCC accredited media persons? Information on media accreditation for UNFCCC meetings is for internal use only and confidential. The UNFCCC secretariat does not distribute media lists. I would like to stay informed about UNFCCC news and events. Can you add me to your mailing list? If you wish to be added to the UNFCCC's media mailing list, send a message to [email protected]. Alternatively, when you begin the media accreditation process, you will have an opportunity to sign up for this service. Viewing content How can I view webcasts on your site, do I need special software? Windows Internet Explorer 8 or later with Javascript enabled. Windows MediaPlayer 10 or later Firefox 5 or later with Microsoft Silverlight Plugin Mac OS Firefox 5 or later or Safari 4 or later with Javascript enabled. Microsoft Silverlight Plugin Mobile Devices (iOS, Android) iOS 5.0+ (iPhone), iOS 5.0+ (iPad) Android 4.0. Depending on the used Hardware. Not all Android devices support live video streaming. Webcast content produced before November 2009 requires the installation of the Real Player. How can I view documents? Documents are available in the Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) and sometimes in HTML. PDF is the standard format, adopted by the United Nations, for issuing official documents electronically. The task of updating this "digital library" is ongoing, and documents are posted as they become available. Which browser do I need to view the web site? The site can be viewed with all newer versions of all browsers. As the website uses style sheets for layout, you may have problems viewing the site in older browsers. General Where do I find information about the United Nations in non-official languages? German language resources: Regionales Informationszentrum der UNO and documents in German. Where can I find information about intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations? Please visit our dedicated web pages for IGOs and NGOs. Updates 12:30 02 Jul, 2024 Show less Media accreditation for COP 29 is open The sessions will be held from 11 to 22 November 2024 at the Baku Olympic Stadium located at Heydar Aliyev, 323, Baku, Azerbaijan. The online registration system (ORS) is the only official channel through which media can be accredited and receive permission to cover COP 29. The secretariat does not accept accreditations via any other channel (e-mail, post, etc.). Any accreditation materials not sent through the online system will not be processed. Please check carefully to ensure that all documents (press ID and letter of assignment) meet requirements and that applicant details are consistent throughout the application. Only full applications with up-to-date documentation can be processed and only accredited media will be admitted to cover COP 29. Please monitor your ORS account if further documentation or information is needed to confirm your application. Once your application is confirmed you will receive a Registration Acknowledgement Form Any inquiries should be communicated through your online registration account or directed to [email protected] To ensure a speedy return of applications please be sure to submit a valid press ID, and that the Letter of Assignment (LoA) meets following criteria: LoA must be on official letterhead of a bona fide media organization and addressed to the UNFCCC Press Office. It should be in English or another official UN language. LoA must indicate the name of the media participant, the duration of the assignment and functional title of professional(s) nominated to cover the COP 29. LoA must be signed by an authorized person (e.g. the Publisher or Editor-in-chief). Unsigned letters of assignment and e-mails are not accepted. Online registration system (ORS) 16:30 06 Jun, 2024 Show less Information for participants (A-Z) The information for participants page has now launched. Visit this page to find important information that will help you plan your visit to the Baku conference. Presentation on COP 29 logistics The incoming presidency briefed June UN Climate Meetings participants on preparations for COP 29. Watch the webcast Download the presentation file Information for participants 11:50 31 Jan, 2024 Show less Road to Baku The COP 28 Presidency and the COP 29 incoming Presidency are committed to ensuring a transparent and inclusive process in the lead-up to COP 29 to be convened in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 11 to 22 November 2024. The Presidency and the incoming Presidency will engage Parties throughout the year at ministerial, Heads of Delegation and technical levels, as appropriate, to lay the groundwork needed to deliver a successful COP 29. Eligibility criteria An observer organization duly admitted by the Conference of the Parties is eligible to apply for one side event slot and/or one exhibit. For information on the admission process for observer organizations, please click here. N.B.! Current applicants for admission and provisionally admitted organizations are not eligible to apply for a side event/exhibit slot at the next session. A Party to the UNFCCC is eligible to apply for one side event slot and/or one exhibit if merging its application with at least one application submitted on behalf of an observer organization. N.B.! A Party must partner with an observer organization in order to be eligible to apply for a side event slot and/or an exhibit slot. Please review the information note on further details for Party applicants. UN system organization or specialized agency is eligible to apply for one side event slot and/or one exhibit. N.B.! There is a separate application track for UN system side events at COPs. As an implication of this policy and the "one side event and one exhibit application per observer organization/Party" policy, it is not possible to merge a side event application submitted via SEORS with a UN system side event application submitted via a different track. For information on the side events and exhibits application process for UN system organizations and specialized agencies at the upcoming session, please review this section of the current webpage. Important notices N.B.! Only one side event application and only one exhibit application per observer organization/Party can be considered per session. A Designated Contact Point (DCP) of an observer organization/a National Focal Point (NFP) of a Party can authorize only one side event application and only one exhibit application per session. The secretariat reminds applicants that it reserves the right to reschedule or cancel side events at any time in the interest of the negotiation process. The secretariat also reserves the right to reallocate or cancel exhibits that do not meet the specified requirements. The no-show policy: Side events: in view of the fact that side event selection is a highly competitive commodity, the secretariat will announce the cancellation after 15 minutes. On-site exhibits: the exhibit slot will be offered to another applicant if the exhibit is not set up on the first day of the booking period without any notice to the secretariat. In case exhibits are virtual: a virtual exhibit slot will be offered to another applicant if the digital content is not submitted by the indicated deadline. N.B.! Access to side event rooms, exhibit booths, and the COP platform for virtual participation is limited to duly registered conference participants. Only those duly registered as part of a delegation can join side events as virtual speakers. Credit: UNFCCC Secretariat Side events and exhibits are a platform for admitted observer organizations, which have limited speaking opportunities in the formal negotiations, to engage with Parties and other participants for knowledge sharing, capacity building, networking, and exploring actionable options for meeting the climate challenge. Side events and exhibits are held by observer organizations (NGOs and IGOs), Parties partnering with observers, UNFCCC divisions, UN organizations and specialized agencies. By participating in side events, these organizations present their work or foster discussions on key issues, often engaging the audience in a Q&A session. Exhibits, in turn, enable participants to network around many different climate-related topics in a dynamic and diverse environment. COP 29 side events and exhibits Application process and timeline As communicated to the Designated Contact Points (DCPs) of all admitted observer organizations and National Focal Points (NFPs) of all Parties on 7 July 2024, the Side Events and Exhibits Online Registration System (SEORS) is open from 10:00 am Central European Summer Time (CEST) on Wednesday, 10 July 2024, to 17:00 CEST on Monday, 15 July 2024. SEORS remains the only channel to receive side event applications from Parties and observer organizations. Side event applications from UN organizations and specialized agencies are outside of the SEORS scope. If you wish to apply for a side event on behalf of a UN organization or a specialized agency, please contact [email protected]. SEORS is the only channel to receive exhibit applications from Parties, observer organizations, UN organizations and specialized agencies. The secretariat continues its efforts to find sufficient resources to facilitate side events and exhibits at COP 29. Consequently, in order to save time for required authorization and mergers of applications, SEORS will be open in parallel so that the secretariat can immediately start the selection process if and when sufficient resources are found. The secretariat will keep observer organizations and Parties partnering with observer organizations informed of the selection process through the SEORS webpage. Thematic categories Side events Primary thematic categories Adaptation, including loss and damage Integrated and holistic approaches Means of Implementation and support Mitigation, including response measures Other topics related to the UNFCCC process Secondary thematic categories Children and youth Climate finance Compliance and accountability Cooperative approaches/market and non-market instruments Desertification Differentiation and equity Disability and climate Disaster risk reduction, risk assessment/insurance Education, training, public awareness & capacity building Enhanced Transparency Framework Enhancing international cooperation Forests/REDD+ Gender Human rights Indigenous peoples Just transition Loss and damage NAPs /NDCs Ocean Peace and Security Response measures Science and assessment Systems transformation: Agriculture and food Systems transformation: Energy Systems transformation: Health Systems transformation: Industry Systems transformation: Transport Systems transformation: Urban & built environment Systems transformation: Water Technology Waste and consumption Exhibits Thematic clusters Adaptation, Resilience and Loss & Damage Agriculture, Food, Land, Desertification, and Forests Education, Science and Technology Energy, Industry and Just Transition Gender, Women, Children and Youth Human Settlements, Health and Sustainable Lifestyle Nature, Biodiversity and Indigenous Peoples Other topics related to the UNFCCC process Monday 11 NovemberFriday 22 November Baku, Azerbaijan The 29th Conference of the Parties on Climate Change (COP 29) will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024. Below the thematic programme per day: November 11 COP29 Opening November 12 World Leaders Climate Action Summit November 13 World Leaders Climate Action Summit November 14 Finance, Investment and Trade November 15 Energy / Peace, Relief and Recovery November 16 Science, Technology and Innovation / Digitalisation November 17 Rest Day and No Thematic Programming November 18 Human Capital / Children and Youth / Health / Education November 19 Food, Agriculture and Water November 20 Urbanisation / Transport / Tourism November 21 Nature and Biodiversity / Indigenous People / Gender Equality / Oceans and Coastal Zones November 22 Final Negotiations ramework for Action Our fixed objective Our fixed objective We all have a moral duty to avoid overshooting the 1.5°C temperature target. But the window of opportunity is closing and we must focus on the need to invest today to save tomorrow. Our fixed priority is delivering deep, rapid and sustained emission reductions now to keep temperatures under control and stay below 1.5°C, while leaving no one behind. Enhance ambition and enable action Enhance ambition and enable action The COP29 Presidency’s plan is based on two mutually reinforcing parallel pillars. The first pillar — to “enhance ambition” — combines key elements to ensure all parties commit to ambitious national plans and transparency. The second pillar — to “enable action” — reflects the critical role of finance, a key tool to turn ambition into action and reduce emissions, adapt to climate change and address loss and damage. Inclusive process for inclusive outcomes Inclusive process for inclusive outcomes The COP29 Presidency is listening to and engaging with a broad range of international stakeholders. It is working to ensure everyone’s voices are heard and perspectives are considered and included so that we deliver inclusive outcomes based on shared solutions. We are optimistic that together we can make real progress. Azerbaijan’s Green Energy Transition Initiatives Azerbaijan is committed to developing its renewable energy potential, which is an important part of the country’s plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2050. The country intends to increase renewable power capacity to 30% by 2030 and diversify its existing energy system to become a leader in green energy. Azerbaijan is committed to leading by example and will update its national targets in its next 1.5-aligned Nationally Determined Contribution. What is COP? COP, which stands for Conference of Parties, is the series of formal meetings Conference of Parties, where governments assess global efforts to advance the Paris Agreement and the Convention, also limit global warming to 1.5°C as informed by the latest science. At COPs, world leaders come together to measure progress and negotiate the best ways to address climate change. There are now 198 Parties (197 countries plus the European Union) to the Convention, constituting near universal membership. The next Conference will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November 2024. When and where will COP29 take place? COP29 will take place from November 11 to 22 in 2024 at Baku Stadium. The venue is located in Baku, the capital city of Azerbaijan. The interactive accommodation portal enables participants and attendees to book hotel rooms and other lodging for the United Nations Climate Change Conference. The accommodation platform can be accessed via the below link: https://cop29-accommodation.bnetwork.com How can I apply for a visa to Azerbaijan? Azerbaijan has already introduced a dedicated COP29 visa application process for registered attendees to facilitate smooth entry to the country. For further information, you can link to the Visa section of the website. Visa Application All COP29 participants traveling from outside Azerbaijan will require a visa. The Azerbaijani Government has authorized a ‘COP29 Special Visa’, free of charge, for all participants registered for COP29. The ‘COP29 Special Visa’ can be obtained either through the official electronic visa portal or Azerbaijan’s diplomatic representations and consulates abroad. The ‘COP29 Special Visa’ allows the holder a single-entry visit. Should you wish to leave Azerbaijan and return during COP29, you must reapply for the ‘COP29 Special Visa’ following the same process used for your initial visa, using your UNFCCC registration number. All foreign participants entering Azerbaijan for COP29 and the pre-sessionals must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Azerbaijan. The ‘COP29 Special Visa’ will be issued within three (3) working days of submitting a complete online application through the official portal, or upon submitting a complete application to a local office of the diplomatic representations and consulates of the Republic of Azerbaijan abroad. Upon approval of registration via the UNFCCC Online Registration System, participants will receive a link to apply for the visa as part of the UNFCCC registration confirmation email. The ‘COP29 Special Visa’ will indicate the date of issue. It will be valid until 30th November 2024. Visa holders must enter the Republic of Azerbaijan before this expiration date. Through the link, please visit the visa portal, fill out the form, upload the required documents and submit your application for approval. Once approved, you will receive a visa confirmation email with a link to download your ‘COP29 Special Visa’. Participants are strongly encouraged to apply for the ‘COP29 Special Visa’ promptly once their UNFCCC registration is confirmed. Please use the visa portal link in your UNFCCC registration email to track the status of your visa. For queries concerning visa arrangements, please contact: [email protected] How can I book office spaces and country pavilions? The "COP29 Delegation Services Portal" for the submission of detailed requests and establishment of country delegation pavilions and offices within the Conference Blue Zone venue perimeter can be accessed via the below link: https://www.cop29.services The portal will allow delegation representatives to select all the additional services required for their participation at the Conference Blue Zone area. "Orientations.events", a company with a proven experience in organizing UN climate change conferences, has been nominated as COP29 Country Pavilions' operating partner. How can we participate and have a presence in the Green Zone? In addition to the formal UN-organized part of COP29, the COP29 host country Azerbaijan also provides an opportunity for the international community and civil society to present solutions and ways forward. Those interested in representation in the Green Zone can submit their official applications via the platform www.cop29greenzone.com. Participants may address any queries about the Green Zone to the following email address [email protected] For further information, you can link to the Green Zone section of the website. WELCOME TO THE COP29 DELEGATION SERVICES' WEB PORTAL COP29 will take place at The Baku Stadium located in the Capital City of Azerbaijan in November 2024. Having been involved in COP events since 2017, orientations.events are delighted to have been appointed as the Official Contractor for ‘Delegation Services’ at this year’s event. We are responsible for the Delegation Offices and Pavilions and all the related services required. On this website, you will find all the information you need pertaining to our services, and you will be able to submit your space requests. Our team look forward to working closely with you on all your needs and are committed to helping you deliver a successful and enjoyable COP29. PAVILION AND OFFICE SPACES To express your interest in participating in COP29 with a delegation office or pavilion, please consult the available space options by going to the "spaces" tab in the main menu or click here. When you submit your order, you will receive a confirmation email. Once the Government of Azerbaijan has approved the space you require, you will receive a notification of approval together with a cost estimate. SEE ALL SPACES DELEGATION SERVICES As the sole official provider of Delegation Services for COP29 Blue Zone, we will soon be offering a suite of services to help you create and manage your Pavilion and Office Spaces, offering a complete service from initial idea/conception through to successful delivery and closure with final reconciliation. PAVILION & OFFICE BUILD GRAPHICS WORK INTERIOR AMENITIES FREIGHT FORWARDING AV & STREAMING STAFFING ON DEMAND CATERING CLEANING How can organisations sponsor COP29 Azerbaijan? Please submit an 'expression of interest’ to [email protected] with information about your organisation and its sustainability initiatives. The COP29 team will be in contact directly to discuss individual submissions and outline next steps. How can I get the COP29 logo in good quality? Please submit a request to [email protected] with information about your organisation, intended usage of the logo, and file format requested. For media enquiries or interview requests, please contact [email protected] For Conference media services, please, contact [email protected] For information on media accreditation, please consult UN Climate Change’s website: https://unfccc.int/about-us/press-and-media How can I register to be a volunteer at COP29? The registration process for the COP29 Volunteer Programme, held from May 29 to June 5 of this year, has concluded. During this period, we received over 16,000 volunteer applications. We are currently in the program's selection phase and conducting interviews with candidates. You can find out more about COP29 Volunteer Programme at the link. How can I apply for COP29 Academy? The registration process for the COP29 Academy, held from June 14th to June 22nd this year, has been concluded COP29 Organising Committee On January 13, 2024, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev, signed an order “On the establishment of the Organising Committee regarding the holding of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), the 19th session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol and the 6th session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement" in Azerbaijan. The Head of the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Samir Nuriyev, was appointed as the Chairman of the Organising Committee. In order to ensure inclusiveness in the composition of the Organising Committee, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev, signed new orders to expand the Organising Committee on January 19 and February 22, 2024. The members of the Organising Committee include: - Mukhtar Babayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, President-Designate of COP29 - Jeyhun Bayramov, Minister of Foreign Affairs - Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy - Vilayat Eyvazov, Minister of Internal Affairs - Anar Alakbarov, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Farah Aliyeva, Head of the Department of Humanitarian Policy, Diaspora, Multiculturalism and Religious Issues of the Presidential Administration - Emin Amrullayev, Minister of Science and Education - Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Head of the Department of Foreign Policy Affairs of the Presidential Administration - Kamaladdin Heydarov, Minister of Emergency Situations - Teymur Musayev, Minister of Health - Rashad Nabiyev, Minister of Digital Development and Transport - Arif Samadov, Chief of the Protocol Service of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Parviz Shahbazov, Minister of Energy - Samir Sharifov, Minister of Finance - Khanlar Aghalarov, Chairman of the Board of the Seaside Boulevard Department - Gulshan Akhundova, Chairperson of the “Women, Development, Future” Public Union - Nigar Arpadarai, Member of the Milli Majlis - Shahin Baghirov, Chairman of the State Customs Committee - Vugar Ahmadov, Chairman of the “Azerishig” Open Joint Stock Company - Aygun Aliyeva, Executive Director of the Agency for State Support to Non-Governmental Organisations - Sabina Aliyeva, Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsperson) - Eldar Azizov, Head of the Baku City Executive Power - Sevinj Fataliyeva, Member of the Milli Majlis - Sabina Hajiyeva, Head of the State Service of Cultural Heritage Conservation, Development and Rehabilitation under the Ministry of Culture - Vusal Huseynov, Chief of the State Migration Service - Mehriban Imanova, Executive Director of the Azerbaijan Science Foundation - Ilhama Gadimova, Deputy Minister of Agriculture - Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture - Elchin Guliyev, Chief of the State Border Service - Vugar Gurbanov, Executive Director of the Administration of the Regional Medical Divisions (TABIB) - Ulvi Mehdiyev, Chairman of the State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan - Maryam Majidova, Head of the “Gender Hub” Public Union of the Youth Gender Equality Center - Saleh Mammadov, Chairman of the Board of the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads - Natavan Mammadova, Secretary General of the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers) Organisations - Nigar Mammadova, Director of "DOST Center for Inclusive Development and Creativity" Limited Liability Company - Shabnam Mammadova, Founder of the “SmartNation” platform - Zaur Mikayilov, Chairman of the Azerbaijan State Water Reserves Agency - Bahar Muradova, Chairperson of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Affairs - Ilgar Musayev, Chief of the State Service of Special Communication and Information Security - Samira Musayeva, Deputy Chief of the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy - Zakiyya Mustafayeva, Deputy Chairman of the Food Safety Agency - Ali Naghiyev, Head of the State Security Service - Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency - Rovshan Najaf, President of the State Oil Company - Konul Nurullayeva, Member of the Milli Majlis - Balababa Rzayev, President of the “Azerenerji” Open Joint Stock Company - Samir Rzayev, President of the Azerbaijan Airlines Closed Joint Stock Company - Ruslan Sadigov, Executive Director of the Baku White City project - Firuza Sultanzade, Chairperson of the Board of “EkoSfera" Socio-Ecological Center - Umayra Taghiyeva, Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources - Mariana Vasileva, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports - Inara Valiyeva, Chairperson of the Innovation and Digital Development Agency under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport - Parvana Valiyeva, Executive Director of the "Health Service" Public Union, co-founder of the “Environmental Protection First” Coalition, - Fatma Yildirim, Member of the Milli Majlis - Saadat Yusifova, Deputy Minister of Culture The expansion of the committee strengthened the representation of women and civil society. Under the orders, the Organising Committee was instructed to prepare the Action Plan for the organisation and holding of COP29, as well as to take measures regarding the establishment of the operating company. Secretariat of the Organising Committee of COP29 is tasked to coordinate the activity of the state bodies with respect to COP29. The first meeting of the Organising Committee of COP29 was held on January 22, 2024. Head of the Presidential Administration, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Samir Nuriyev, made a speech about the activities and expectations from the Organising Committee for the successful organisation of COP29, as well as Azerbaijan’s contributions to the international efforts in the sphere of environmental protection and global climate change. Referring to the tasks given by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev, he said that all necessary measures will be taken to organise the event at the highest level. Members of the Organising Committee also reported on agenda issues. Following the meeting, the Secretariat of the Organising Committee, the President-Designate of COP29 and others were assigned tasks on the finalisation of the Action Plan regarding the organisation and holding of COP29, as well as other related issues. The second meeting of the Organising Committee of COP29 was held on March 7, 2024. The Head of the Presidential Administration, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Samir Nuriyev, outlined the progress made in preparation for COP29 since the first meeting, in accordance with the instructions of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev. Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources and President-Designate of COP29 Mr. Mukhtar Babayev spoke about his visits to various foreign countries to discuss issues arising from Azerbaijan’s COP29 chairmanship. Minister Babayev also reported on his meetings with foreign officials and international organisations responsible for climate issues. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Organising Committee was tasked with implementing the Action Plan and other pertinent matters concerning the organisation and hosting of COP29. COP29 International Advisory Committee The COP29 Presidency is engaging with a broad range of international stakeholders to ensure everyone’s voices are heard and perspectives are considered so that we deliver inclusive outcomes based on shared solutions. As one of the important mechanisms to drive this vision forward, COP29 Presidency established COP29 International Advisory Committee (COP29 IAC). The Committee is consisted of eminent personalities who will bring valuable perspective on issues related to various pillars of climate action. COP29 International Advisory Committee The main objectives of the COP29 IAC are the following: To represent diverse voices of climate advocates from different communities such as finance, government, academia, entrepreneurship, civil society etc. in order to provide multi stakeholder guidance and expert advice to the COP29 Presidency on key issues in the sphere of climate change; To facilitate international collaboration and partnerships that enhance and promote COP29 initiatives; To ensure that COP29 preparations and its decisions are informed by the latest scientific research, best practices, and innovative solutions; To assist in the identification and mobilization of resources for COP programs and projects; To promote transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement in COP-related processes. The Committee will offer following strategic guidance and assistance to the COP29 Presidency: Provide sector-specific geopolitical, market, and other expert advice and knowledge; Review and provide feedback on COP strategies, policies, and programs; Act as a consultative body to the COP29 Presidency's negotiated and non-negotiated outcomes, ensuring a diversity of perspectives; Recommend approaches for addressing global challenges within the COP framework; Engaging with Parties and non-Party stakeholders to propose and promote practical solutions for climate-related topics to support the COP29 outcomes; Provide recommendations for improving the impact and sustainability of COP29 initiatives; Providing any other appropriate support to the COP29 Presidency. The COP29 IAC will operate through both in-person and online meetings. The Committee will meet monthly, with additional sessions scheduled as necessary. Communication will be maintained via email, video conferences, and relevant digital platforms. Letter to Parties and Constituencies Dear Colleagues, Since assuming the responsibility to host this year’s climate negotiations, my team and I have been listening intently to all Parties, Constituencies and all other non-Party stakeholders. In our many engagements, we have been humbled by the challenges you are facing, inspired to hear how you are responding, and encouraged to see that you have the will to move forward. I am confident that there is a clear and common desire to make COP29 a success. Climate change is not a future risk, it is a real and present danger to billions of people around the world. I have recently witnessed the perilous impacts of climate change as I have visited communities on the frontlines, from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to the Least Developed Countries (LDCs). Climate change threatens to undermine decades of progress in global development, with devastating consequences for so many, while climate action promises a better future for all. Growing geopolitical tensions and uncertainty in the international environment must not distract us from the imperative to collaborate and address climate change as the greatest transnational challenge of the century. I am grateful for the direction and support I have received from the President of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev. As President Aliyev mentioned, we are honoured by the confidence and trust you have placed in us by unanimously agreeing to choose Azerbaijan as the COP29 host country and to lead this year’s climate talks. We will spare no efforts to act as a bridge between the developed and developing nations and steer the process to a consensus at COP29. It is critical now more than ever to act on climate change as a common commitment, a moral duty and an unmissable opportunity for sustainable development. I know that this is also a direction that your leaders provide and that your peoples expect. Now I wish to set out the principles I want us all to focus on, to present the COP29 Presidency’s vision to enhance ambition and enable action, outline the key presidency milestones, lay out the pathways that we must follow to turn our vision into a reality, and highlight collaborative networks for complementary action. Principles of Action The multilateral system is under pressure to show it can deliver at the speed and scale needed. COP29 will be a litmus test for the Paris Agreement and global climate action and cooperation. We must address all of the most fundamental and pressing issues at COP29, with a new collective quantified goal (NCQG) as a centrepiece. Our actions should be guided by the latest science and informed by the outcomes of the Global Stocktake, agreed by Parties at COP28, with its roadmap for keeping 1.5C within reach, while leaving no one behind. COP29 will be essential to delivering the means of implementation and support, and ensuring that everyone reaches for the highest possible ambition reflecting equity and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in the light of different national circumstances. We have to be steadfast in our determination to fulfil past promises, deliver on our mandates, and build on the process so that it can address the urgency and scale of the crisis. As a Presidency we are committed to delivering COP29 in a transparent, impartial, inclusive and party- driven manner. We now need everyone to take ownership of the process and engage in good faith to act swiftly. We are fully committed to inclusivity throughout the process, and during the Bonn sessions alone, the COP29 Negotiating Team led by Chief Negotiator Yalchin Rafiyev held over 170 consultations. In particular, we wish to thank the UNFCCC Constituencies, whose inputs have already been invaluable. We have had monthly engagements with Constituencies and will establish a “Friends of the COP29 Presidency” open to all Constituencies to ensure that our plans take into account their priorities and concerns. This will help us channel a diversity and wealth of solutions to help us address our common challenges. We have appointed the COP29 UN High-Level Champion, Nigar Arpadarai, to engage with non-Party stakeholders on global climate action and all members of the COP29 Presidency will continue to consult with them. The COP29 Youth Climate Champion, Leyla Hasanova, is leading our work on training young educators and youth in party delegations. Parties’ upcoming climate plans must also be inclusive, reflecting the needs of all, including Indigenous Peoples, local communities, women, youth, and all Constituencies. To keep 1.5C within reach and leave no one behind, we will need to work in harmony in multiple cross- cutting dimensions. We need to advance across all climate pillars, involve global, regional, national and subnational groups, take a holistic view of sustainable development, and include all demographics within an inclusive process that delivers inclusive outcomes. This has been the basis for the development of the COP29 vision to enhance ambition and enable action. The Two-Pillars of the COP29 Vision: Enhance Ambition, Enable Action Throughout the COP29 Presidency’s consultations we have presented our vision based on two parallel pillars to enhance ambition and enable action, with climate finance as our top priority. These pillars are mutually reinforcing – progress on each sends a strong signal in support of the other. Successful delivery of key mandates and action will be essential to building trust, solidarity, and momentum. We have further developed our ideas based on your input and feedback and we believe that there is a broad agreement on the principles of the way forward. All countries must strive for the highest possible ambition, in line with the Paris Agreement and informed by the Global Stocktake. We also know that support for developing countries will allow for higher ambition in their actions. We now need to increase the overall flow of climate finance substantially and help developing countries that need support to realise their full potential. Enhancing ambition involves setting out clear plans to keep 1.5 within reach and leave no one behind in accordance with the purposes, goals, and principles of the Paris Agreement. The key elements of enhancing ambition will be for the Parties to signal their own determination to act with ambitious, comprehensive, and robust Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), National Adaptation Plans, and Biennial Transparency Reports, as well as their wider engagement in international cooperation. Enabling action involves putting in place the means of implementation and support – finance, technology and capacity building – and the wider enabling conditions at a national, regional and global level spanning across all stakeholders. The COP29 Presidency’s top negotiating priority is agreeing a fair and ambitious New Collective Quantified Goal on climate finance (NCQG) adequate to the urgency and scale of the problem, taking into account the needs and priorities of developing country Parties. Our efforts should include the full scope and potential of the resources that need to be made available. We are also committed to finalising the operationalisation of Article 6 as a long overdue priority. Strengthening multilateral financial institutions and climate funds will also be an important contribution to creating the international enabling environment for success, and we are working towards fully mobilising the private sector and philanthropy for climate action. Every day that slips away increases the toll on the ground for millions of people. It is imperative that we act swiftly on loss and damage, including with regard to the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage. The COP29 Presidency’s vision is also the foundation of our action agenda and thematic programme, and progress on the different elements of the two pillars will help support action across all thematic issues. This includes finance, trade and investment, energy, biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, water, science, technology and innovation, sustainable urbanisation, and health, amongst other global priorities. Presidency Milestones We have heard strong calls that collectively at COP29 we need to make progress across all pillars of the Paris Agreement, with climate finance as a centrepiece. As a Presidency, we are committed to ensuring that Party and non-Party stakeholders have spaces available to discuss and progress means of implementation and support, mitigation, adaptation, and loss and damage. During SB60, we made some progress on the agenda items, and the COP29 Presidency is grateful for the hard work of the Parties, the UNFCCC Secretariat and Executive Secretary Simon Stiell and the SB chairs, Harry Vreuls and Ambassador Nabeel Munir. However, divergent views among Parties held us back from making the necessary progress. We clearly need a rapid increase in the pace of our work and a renewed commitment to bridge the gaps between us. Time lost is lives, livelihoods and the planet lost. We will convene a Heads of Delegation level retreat in Azerbaijan from 26-27 July, and we have invited representatives from all negotiating groups. We will use the meeting to focus on the NCQG and ensure progress on negotiations across all pillars of the Paris Agreement, including key mandates such as Article 6. A summary of the discussions will be distributed to all Parties and Constituencies. We have appointed Ministers Dan Jørgensen of Denmark, and Dr. Yasmine Fouad of Egypt as ministerial pairs for the NCQG and will circulate an information note on their mandate and modalities for consultations shortly. We are consulting with Parties on the appointment of further pairs on other key issues and we expect to make further announcements in September. During the UN General Assembly and New York Climate Week the COP29 Presidency will engage with all Parties and Constituencies. We will host a high-level energy dialogue with the IEA and an event on NDC ambition with the “Roadmap to Mission 1.5” Troika, amongst others. We will also support the efforts on putting together a global renewables summit with COP28, Global Renewables Alliance (GRA), Bloomberg Philanthropies, IEA, IRENA and other partners. A full agenda for each of these events will be circulated in due course. Ahead of COP29, we will host representatives of negotiating groups and Constituencies at Pre-COP in Baku on 10-11 October. A full agenda will be distributed in September. We will also host a High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on the NCQG on 9 October ahead of Pre-COP. We will commence COP29 by hosting Heads of State and Government at the official opening on 11 November and the World Leaders Climate Action Summit on 12-13 November. We are inviting all world leaders to attend and will provide further information about the Summit in September. We call on leaders to come ready to make commitments on how they are advancing the Paris Agreement. During this Summit, we will seek to build consensus and momentum around the two pillars of the COP29 Plan to enhance ambition and enable action and demonstrate to all stakeholders that there is clear political will to deliver across all mandates. We will also host leader-level dialogues that will address key topics, including raising ambition for mitigation and adaptation through NDCs, National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and long-term low greenhouse gas emission development strategies, enabling action with the NCQG and other means of implementation and support, as well as addressing loss and damage and fully operationalising the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage and the Santiago Network. Following the leader-level events, we want COP29 delegates to focus on thematic issues across seven days, with space to platform new initiatives, celebrate success and share best practices. The full list of thematic days and Presidency hosted/ organised events is included in Annex 1 and Annex 2. We will also work with the UNFCCC Secretariat to ensure programming on thematic days are scheduled coherently with mandated events – especially ministerial and other high-level meetings. Under the framework of these thematic days, we have Presidency initiatives that will incorporate global and regional action and will provide a platform for all stakeholders to enhance ambition and enable action. We are in the process of developing and consulting on a range of commitments, declarations, initiatives, platforms, and packages of support that will build momentum on the two pillars of our vision, and will issue a separate communication on initiatives in due course. To ensure continuity and interoperability with existing international frameworks, we have partnered with UN and international agencies in the development and delivery of this action agenda. Gender equality and youth empowerment will be considered as cross-cutting elements across all thematic days and initiatives, with the support of the COP29 UN High-Level Champion, Nigar Arpadarai and COP29 Youth Climate Champion, Leyla Hasanova. Pathways to Delivery 1. Enabling Action Finance and The New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG) Adopting the NCQG will be a pivotal moment for whether Parties can make progress on the means of implementation and support, and the Paris Agreement more broadly. This will be the first major finance goal after the Paris Agreement and we are sparing no effort to support the Parties to reach consensus. The COP29 Presidency’s top negotiating priority is to agree a fair and ambitious NCQG, taking into account the needs and priorities of developing country Parties. But this is not just our priority. The COP29 Presidency has heard the voices of so many Parties and communities that are counting on all of us to take this step at COP29. We must all go the extra mile together to deliver this historic milestone. The new goal will be a critical component of responding to the outcomes of the Global Stocktake. Both adaptation and mitigation financing require a substantial increase, and the upcoming determination of the needs of developing country Parties by the Standing Committee on Finance will also be a key consideration as we seek increased contributions for climate finance. Our work on climate finance should represent progression beyond previous efforts, delivering multiples, adequate to the scale and urgency of the problem. Transparency and accessibility will also be key facilitating conditions that will require effort from multiple stakeholders. SB60 was an important moment for the Ad Hoc Work Programme to make progress on a pathway towards a substantive framework for a draft negotiating text. The COP29 Presidency has full trust and confidence in co-chairs, Fiona Gilbert and Zaheer Fakir, as they prepare the next input paper to help focus discussions, bring together options into potential solutions and narrow down the choices as much as possible, to help facilitate more clearly structured consultations. The technical work is an essential foundation. However, climate finance has been one of the most challenging topics in the negotiations and climate diplomacy more broadly, and the politically complex issues will not be solved by negotiators alone. We have heard clearly from the Parties that there are disagreements on key elements that will require political direction and we must focus high-level discussions on these points. The COP29 Presidency is now intensifying political engagement, we thank our new ministerial pairs on the NCQG for their time and their commitment to support us, and we call on all Parties to increase the pace of their work and move on from their early negotiating positions. The NCQG will be amongst key issues to be addressed at the Heads of Delegation retreat in Azerbaijan in July. We will host the 11th Technical Expert Dialogue and 3rd meeting under the Ad Hoc Work Programme on the NCQG on 10-13 September in Azerbaijan, and a High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on the NCQG on 9 October ahead of Pre-COP. Meanwhile, Parties need to reach out to each other directly and use the inter-sessional period to make as much progress as possible in the run-up to COP29. Furthermore, ministries of finance and equivalent must be included early in the process. The COP29 Presidency has been raising the NCQG on the political agenda with heads of state and ministers in all multilateral and bilateral forums. We need relevant ministries and ministers to be familiar with the key negotiating issues and ensure that negotiators and ministers arrive at COP29 with a mandate that allows for a fair and ambitious NCQG outcome. While it is regrettable that the $100 billion goal was not met on schedule, the COP29 Presidency welcomed the OECD’s announcement that for 2022 developed countries have jointly mobilised $115.9 billion. We urge them to continue efforts to meet the $100 billion goal through to 2025 with greater clarity and transparency. This will be essential to demonstrating that we can keep to our commitments and we can set a new goal with confidence. Article 6 Article 6 is a core and necessary element of the architecture of the Paris Agreement. Its full functioning will be a significant step to bolster ambition in mitigation and adaptation, enhance capital markets, create viable economic models for climatepositive action and technologies, channel financial and technical resources, including to the developing world, and enable those who need carbon markets to implement their climate plans. Although plenty of work has been done over these years, after almost a decade, our inability to fully operationalise it has been disappointing. The COP29 Presidency is committed to finalising the operationalisation of Article 6 this year as a priority. This is essential to meeting the goals and ambitions of the Paris Agreement and the COP29 Presidency’s vision to enhance ambition and enable action. In recent months and at SB60, there was clear will to advance work on Article 6 and the COP29 Presidency elevated it as a priority to create momentum. We are committed to take it further and get it to the finish line at COP29. We need to use the inter-sessional period to make as much progress as possible through all the complex issues across both technical and political tracks and identify possible landing zones. We need to fully use the mandated hybrid inter-sessional workshop and technical meetings to make progress. We encourage Parties to show greater commitment and flexibility, and engage in bilateral dialogues. The COP29 Presidency will support this endeavour by creating the space and opportunity for inclusive and transparent engagements in the run up to COP29. We will use the opportunity of the Heads of Delegation retreat in Azerbaijan to discuss Article 6 to help find common ground and continue constructive momentum. Loss and Damage To protect vulnerable communities who stand to lose the most from the climate crisis, particularly in SIDS and LDCs, mechanisms for financial support are essential and we must act without delay. At COP27 and COP28 we made historic progress, but more needs to be done to keep the momentum going and fully operationalise the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage, so that it can begin disbursing much needed and long-awaited funds as soon as possible. The first and second meetings of the Board of the Fund have provided important and positive progress. The COP29 Presidency expects the Board to continue accelerating substantial progress throughout the year to ensure the timely and accessible delivery of adequate funds. We will host the third meeting of the Board from 18 September to 20 September in Baku, Azerbaijan. All stakeholders must demonstrate a clear commitment to working urgently, inclusively, and transparently, to make the Fund better able to deliver effectively on its mandate. The first pledges to the Fund were welcome. However, significantly more will be needed to protect those who are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change and respond to loss and damage, so we are calling for further pledges to the Fund. The COP29 Presidency also urges the different funds and financial mechanisms to increase their coordination to improve coherence and better address loss and damage. We also support coordination and coherence within the overall loss and damage landscape consisting of the Warsaw International Mechanism, Santiago Network and the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage. In this regard, we continue to support the full operationalisation of the Santiago Network, so that technical assistance can be accessed as quickly as possible by those at the frontline of climate change. 2. Enhancing Ambition Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Mitigation It is essential that we implement the Global Stocktake outcomes, in a nationally determined manner, to keep us on track to a 1.5-aligned and climate resilient world in line with the Paris Agreement. Last year in paragraph 28 of the Global Stocktake, Parties recognised the need for deep, rapid and sustained reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in line with 1.5C pathways and called on parties to contribute to the global efforts in a nationally determined manner, taking into account the Paris Agreement and their different national circumstances, pathways, and approaches. This included tripling renewable energy capacity globally and doubling the global average annual rate of energy efficiency by 2030, accelerating and substantially reducing non-carbon-dioxide emissions globally including in particular methane emissions by 2030, and accelerating efforts towards the phase-down of unabated coal power. It also made the first reference to fossil fuels in a COP outcome, with a call on Parties to contribute, in a nationally determined manner, towards transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems, in a just, orderly and equitable manner, accelerating action in this critical decade, so as to achieve net zero by 2050 in keeping with the science. As the COP29 Presidency, we encourage all Parties to come forward with their own 1.5-aligned NDCs at the earliest opportunity and well ahead of the 10 February 2025 deadline. NDCs should be informed by the science and the Global Stocktake outcome, in light of different national circumstances and foster investment and support. The COP29 Presidency will lead by example. As we announced with our Troika partners, Azerbaijan, the UAE and Brazil are working on submitting 1.5-aligned NDCs. COP29 CEO Elnur Soltanov and Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Umayra Taghiyeva are leading an interagency working group to submit Azerbaijan’s NDC early and prepare its first Long-Term Development Strategy (LTS). Azerbaijan will integrate its NDC within its LTS and we call on all Parties to ensure that they are working across their respective governments to mainstream climate action into their sustainable development aspirations and priorities. We are also working within the Troika on a set of activities to significantly enhance international cooperation and the international enabling environment to stimulate ambition in the next round of NDCs. As a Troika, we will issue a separate communication to all Parties shortly on activities planned for the UN General Assembly, the G20 Joint Ministerial on Climate and Finance, Pre-COP and during COP29. We are partnering with the UN Secretary General and the entire UN system to ensure that Parties receive support to design and implement NDCs, and upon the Troika’s call to the UN Secretary General, UNDP has launched its Climate Promise 2025 initiative to provide capacity-building support. We also welcome the launch of UNFCCC’s NDC 3.0 Navigator and invite Parties to use this toolkit in the process of designing new NDCs. We are committed to providing a space for Parties to deliberate on mitigation and the just transition. At the retreat in Azerbaijan later this month, we will address these issues, among others. We will also ensure there is space outside the negotiations on these important issues and have already hosted two high-level energy dialogues with the IEA, with the third planned on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in September. We will also put a spotlight on how all Parties can integrate non-carbon dioxide emissions into their upcoming NDCs and will create spaces in our thematic programming to collaborate on agriculture, waste, methane and other non-CO2 greenhouse gases. We will co-host a methane workshop with the IEA in Baku in October, and we are co-organising a methane and non-CO2 greenhouse gases summit with the US and China at COP29. National Adaptation Plans and Adaptation The Global Stocktake found that adaptation efforts are not on track to achieve our long-term goals. It called for urgent, incremental, transformational and country-driven adaptation action based on different national circumstances, while recognising the significant challenges developing country Parties face in accessing finance for implementing their National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and Adaptation Communications. Responding to the Global Stocktake, we all need to have National Adaptation Plans, policies and planning processes in place by 2025 so that we can make progress in implementing them by 2030. These plans will guide how we share best practice, transfer technology, and support each other’s ambitions. Azerbaijan is currently working to submit its NAP and we call on all Parties to commit to producing NAPs by 2025 or earlier. Adaptation finance is crucial to delivering outcomes on the ground, and we need effective, efficient, and expedited support to implement adaptation ambitions. In the Global Stocktake, Parties recognised that adaptation finance will have to be significantly scaled up beyond the doubling agreed at COP26 to support the urgent and evolving need to accelerate adaptation and build resilience in developing countries. The COP29 Presidency calls on developed countries to show significant progress on at least doubling adaptation finance by 2025 and underscores the need to balance adaptation and mitigation finance. The COP29 Presidency emphasises the urgent need for continued and increased contributions to funds, including the Green Climate Fund and the Adaptation Fund, and we are also working with the funds to improve functionality for adaptation finance. We are also calling for the Green Climate Fund to expedite support for the formulation and implementation of NAPs. The UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience was an important step forward in developing thematic and dimensional targets that aim to guide the achievement of the Global Goal on Adaptation and the review of overall progress in achieving it. In our thematic programme we will provide a platform for Parties to collaborate across several of the key areas identified in the framework, and deliver solutions on water, agriculture, health, biodiversity, and infrastructure and human settlement. We are committed to supporting the UAE-Belem work programme to develop indicators for measuring progress on the targets outlined in the Framework. We must give this programme the urgency it deserves and utilise the time available to make concrete and early progress on indicators. Biennial Transparency Reports and Transparency Transparency is central to mutual trust within the UNFCCC process. Considering the constrained timelines to deliver the upcoming Biennial Transparency Reports (BTRs), the COP29 Presidency is raising the profile of transparency and BTRs. These BTRs will be essential to track progress on commitments and assess gaps and financial needs. The COP29 Presidency has been actively working with the UNFCCC to ensure that the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) reporting tools are ready on time, and to build confidence amongst the parties in the process. These online reporting tools have officially launched, we welcome the first BTRs submissions, and we now need to get the process moving. We will all learn by doing, and the process and the results will be improved in the future. Azerbaijan will lead by example and is working to submit its own BTR ahead of COP29. We urge others to join us with early submissions ahead of COP29, and we will organise a platform for Parties to demonstrate their commitment to transparency and the timely publication of their BTRs. We are also calling on international organisations mandated to provide financial, technical and capacity building support to Parties to speed up the process. The COP29 Presidency has launched a process to support parties and broaden participation in the ETF. This initiative began with series of workshops, starting in Azerbaijan in May, to support Parties to build capacity to meet their obligations. Further workshops are planned in Baku in early September, to focus on IPCC Inventory Software and the linkages of the software with the UNFCCC Reporting Tool. We will conduct workshops with several partners for regional groupings, including Eastern Europe, South Caucasus and Central Asia, Africa, Asia-Pacific and Latin America and the Caribbean. We will also host online sessions to ensure the widest possible participation. Beyond the December 2024 BTR deadline, this initiative will continue to serve as a platform for targeted support, capacity-building, and exchanging experiences on lessons learned. Collaborative Networks for Complementary Action Meaningful and ambitious climate action is already being demonstrated by diverse actors, including the G7 and G20. All stakeholders must continue to demonstrate leadership and action to address the climate crisis. The COP29 Presidency welcomes the G7’s support for climate action, as expressed in its latest leaders’ summit, inter alia its commitment to submit 1.5-aligned NDCs, phase out existing unabated coal power generation during the first half of the 2030s, and its intention to be contributors towards the new climate finance goal. The G20 leaders’ summit in November will be an important moment to support enhancing ambition and enabling action. The COP29 Presidency calls on the G20 to come forward with early and ambitious announcements on climate action and cooperation, to help deliver solutions on the most complex climate issues. COP29 is working with Brazil as the COP30 and G20 Presidency, as well as with the G20 member countries. The G20 Task Force for Global Mobilisation Against Climate Change is an important forum to act on climate issues. Azerbaijan and Brazil will collaborate together to launch the Baku to Belem (B2B) initiative to enhance ambition and enable action, to further global climate action in this critical decade to keep 1.5C within reach. We are also building further linkages among the Rio Conventions on climate change, biodiversity, and desertification to ensure coordination, leverage synergies, and cooperate on crosscutting issues. We have initiated collaboration with the Colombian Presidency of COP16 to the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Saudi Presidency of COP16 to the Convention to Combat Desertification, and are inviting them for a joint meeting during COP29. Global financial institutions have a significant role to play in supporting developing countries to take climate action. As shareholders, Parties, particularly from the G7 and G20, should work with their colleagues across government to ensure that these institutions are not standing on the sidelines. It is essential that multilateral financial institutions show how they are progressing on the outcomes of the Global Stocktake at COP29, including increasing the scale, and effectiveness of, and simplified access to, climate finance. During the Spring Meetings, the COP29 Presidency called on the World Bank, IMF, and other multilateral financial institutions to deliver a step change on climate action. We will use every opportunity, including the next round of annual meetings, and ministerial gatherings of the TF CLIMA, to engage with all stakeholders and strengthen their response to the climate crisis. The COP29 Presidency is calling on all institutions to review their levels of capitalisation, climate-allocation ratios, relevant financial policies, and accessibility procedures for developing countries, in particular LDCs and SIDS to ensure that they meet the urgency of the climate crisis and the needs of developing countries. COP29 will provide a platform for investment partnerships with MDBs that cover all economic sectors, not just energy, as part of our thematic day agenda on finance, investment and trade. The private sector is a critical partner in delivering climate action at scale and the COP29 UN High-Level Champion, Nigar Arpadarai, leads our work to involve them in COP29. We will run programmes with SMEs to collaborate on best practices, build capacity and climate literacy, and create partnerships with global companies and financiers. We will focus on climate innovators and “green disruptors” to ensure that they have the funding, training and resources necessary to implement and scale climate solutions. We will put a spotlight on key priority areas of innovation, including water, renewable energy, zero and low-emission technologies, and food security, amongst others. During COP29, we will host a Business and Philanthropy Forum, to mobilise participants and secure commitments to climate action. Businesses have already made progress committing to net zero, and they must now deliver and avoid backsliding. The private sector needs to show leadership on transparency, and we urge companies to demonstrate their proactive commitment to robust disclosure procedures at COP29. We call on companies to come to COP29 ready to show how they are allocating capital and ensuring investment decisions contribute towards our climate goals. Conclusion As the COP29 Presidency prepares to host and lead this year’s climate summit, we will continue to listen and engage, and I thank everyone for your time, openness, and constructive spirit. Your feedback is essential. We are optimistic that together we can make real progress. When the world comes to COP29 in Azerbaijan, we want everyone to focus on our moral duty and collective interest to confront the climate crisis. COP is a party-driven process, and we need all hands-on deck as billions of people are counting on you to meet these responsibilities and seize these opportunities. I look forward to welcoming you all to Baku in November as we face up to the defining test of COP29 to enhance ambition and enable action. This can be when we empower everyone to move forward in solidarity for a green world. H.E. Mukhtar Babayev COP29 President-Designate Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Republic of Azerbaijan Annex 1: COP29 Two Week Agenda and Thematic Days November 11 COP29 Opening November 12 World Leaders Climate Action Summit November 13 World Leaders Climate Action Summit November 14 Finance, Investment and Trade November 15 Energy / Peace, Relief and Recovery November 16 Science, Technology and Innovation / Digitalisation November 17 Rest Day and No Thematic Programming November 18 Human Capital / Children and Youth / Health / Education November 19 Food, Agriculture and Water November 20 Urbanisation / Transport / Tourism November 21 Nature and Biodiversity / Indigenous People / Gender Equality / Oceans and Coastal Zones November 22 Final Negotiations Annex 2: Key Calendar Moments Heads of Delegation Retreat July 26-27 Shamakhi, Azerbaijan BTR Workshops for Regional Groups September 11th Technical Expert Dialogue and 3rd meeting under the Ad Hoc Work Programme on the NCQG September 10-13 Azerbaijan 3rd meeting of the Board of the Fund for responding to Loss and Damage September 18-20 Baku, Azerbaijan High-Level Energy Dialogue co-hosted with IEA September New York, United States Methane Workshop co-hosted with IEA October Baku, Azerbaijan High-Level Ministerial Dialogue on the NCQG October 9 Baku, Azerbaijan Pre-COP October 10-11 Baku, Azerbaijan 2nd Business and Philanthropy Climate Forum November Baku, Azerbaijan Methane and non-CO2 greenhouse Gases Summit November Baku, Azerbaijan World Leaders Climate Action Summit November 12-13 Baku, Azerbaijan COP29 November 11-22 Baku, Azerbaijan COP Presidencies Troika COP Presidencies Troika - Road map to Mission 1.5 Vision, objectives, and scope of work The international community entered COP28 with a clear recognition that the world is off-track to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. With the conclusion of the outcome of the first Global Stocktake (GST) and the decisions under the UAE Consensus, Parties rallied behind a shared understanding of the gaps in global climate action and delivered a unified vision for course correction to keep 1.5°C within reach. The unprecedented urgency in this critical decade to scale climate action across all pillars of the Paris Agreement requires a renewed impulse towards implementation of Parties’ decisions under the UNFCCC process, while supporting nationally determined ambition. It is in this context that the first GST mandated the “Roadmap to Mission 1.5” through which the COP Presidencies Troika has been established. Mandate and Objectivies As set out in the decision on the Outcome of the first global stock take, the Road map to Mission 1.5 aims to significantly enhance international cooperation and the international enabling environment to stimulate ambition in the next round of NDCs, with a view to enhancing action and implementation over this critical decade and keeping 1.5°C within reach. With the Troika, the UAE, Azerbaijan, and Brazil - Presidencies of COP28, COP29 and COP30 respectively - aim to build continuity and coherence between Presidencies to ensure momentum going from Dubai Conference into Baku COP in 2024 and beyond into Belem COP in 2025, through an innovative and strategic partnership that can help Parties move from negotiated texts to action and implementation, in order to help put into action what we all have agreed multilaterally. This will include joint initiatives and activities focused on enhanced climate action. At the same time, the Troika will seek to enhance consistency and coherency of existing mechanisms within and outside the UNFCCC process by creating a shared platform for action and set of activities, coordinating, and building on existing Presidency initiatives, and advocacy on submissions of 1.5°C - aligned NDCs by early 2025. As such, the next round of NDCs in 2025 must be informed by the first GST, including backed by accessible, affordable, transparent, and inclusive climate finance and other means of implementation and provision of support so to ensure that the world can truly redefine collective ambition and accelerate implementation. COP29 Venue Baku Stadium is more than just a venue for sports and entertainment; it is a symbol of Azerbaijan's ambition and its ability to host international events. It plays a crucial role in promoting sports, inclusivity, culture, and tourism in the region. Officially opened on March 18, 2015, it stands as one of the largest and most modern stadiums in the region, showcasing Azerbaijan's growing prominence in international mega events. The stadium features a contemporary design with an elliptical shape, symbolizing eternity. Its exterior is covered with a membrane that can be illuminated in various colors, creating stunning visual effects during events. Baku Stadium is strategically located near Baku city center, making it accessible from various parts of the city, including H.Aliyev International airport. The stadium is well-served by public transportation, including buses and the Baku Metro. It is also easily accessible by car, with extensive parking facilities available. The design of Baku Stadium incorporates several eco-friendly features, such as energy- efficient lighting and water management systems, underlining Azerbaijan's commitment to sustainable development. The Blue Zone is the formal conference and negotiation space managed by the UNFCCC. All the official sessions, meetings, side events and press conferences held during COP29 will take place in the Blue Zone. Only UNFCCC-accredited participants, including Party delegations, Heads of State, admitted observers and the accredited press can enter