BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 5. Climate change, atmospheric and environmental pollution, droughts and desertification, biodiversity loss, water scarcity, food shortages, and other global environmental problems facing our world today pose a serious threat to the existence and future of humanity, said President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in his appeal to the participants of the Global Summit of Religious Leaders under the slogan “World Religions for a Green Planet”, Trend reports.
"Addressing the climate crisis and issues of environmental security requires the cooperation of world states and the unification of the international community’s efforts at all levels. I appreciate that influential religious leaders have gathered here for COP events, demonstrating their concern for the fate of our planet and their determination to contribute to the common cause in the spirit of inclusivity.
The abundant spiritual resources of various faiths and beliefs can stimulate solutions to the existential problems brought about by climate change. Religious leaders worldwide can play a major role in addressing these challenges.
The unanimous decision to hold COP29 in Azerbaijan is an indicator of high confidence in the international reputation of our country, and this is no coincidence. Azerbaijan has joined a number of conventions and agreements related to environmental problems, established cooperation with various countries, and adopted multifaceted activity programs in this field. Effective institutional mechanisms and an investment environment have been put in place by creating the necessary legislative framework for environmental protection in our country. Important steps are currently being taken to implement “green energy” projects, the use of alternative and renewable energy, as well as the evaluation and elimination of the negative effects on the environment. The year 2024 has been declared the “Green World Solidarity Year” in Azerbaijan," the address reads.