A delegation from the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company travelled to New York City to take part in the 79th session of the UN General Assembly and New York Climate Week. On September 26, the Operating Company hosted a briefing for representatives of member states, outlining the organizational and operational preparations underway for COP29, set to take place in Baku this November.

The event updated participants on the crucial steps taken by the COP29 Presidency in preparation for the conference, as well as planned activities. Delegations from numerous UN member states were in attendance.

During the briefing, Narmin Jarchalova, Chair of the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company and Chief Operating Officer for COP29, delivered a comprehensive presentation. She offered an overview of the key events in the COP calendar and the thematic agenda for COP29, including a brief discussion on the COP29 World Leaders Climate Action Summit (WLCAS). Mrs Jarchalova also provided insights into the ongoing work at the venue, Baku Stadium. She emphasized that a major component of the preparation process involves construction and installation efforts at the stadium, detailing the zoning for various purposes and the development of essential infrastructure.

Emphasizing the significance of sustainability, Mrs. Jarchalova highlighted that sustainability principles have been prioritized at every stage of the operation. She explained that the event venue fully complies with requirements for sustainability, accessibility, and inclusivity, outlining the measures implemented to foster an accessible and inclusive environment at the stadium. Additionally, she discussed the company’s key sustainability goals and commitments.

Wasim Mir, Director of Conference Affairs for the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), also addressed the briefing, praising the preparations and operational arrangements for COP29. Cecilia Kinuthia-Njenga, Director of the Intergovernmental Support and Collective Progress Division of the UNFCCC discussed the agenda of the COP29 World Leaders Climate Action Summit, as well as the process through which countries can apply for national statements.

Following Narmin Jarchalova’s presentation, members of the COP29 Coordination Board, Shahla Abbakirova and Ismayıl Isayev, took the floor. They provided insights into how the Operating Company will enhance the visitor experience during COP29, covering key topics such as registration and accreditation processes, the issuance of the COP29 Special Visa, media services, and transportation arrangements. Additionally, the Coordination Board members elaborated on the organizational aspects of major events and meetings scheduled during the World Climate Action Summit, which will be held in the early days of COP29. They also provided updates on the arrangements and plans being implemented to ensure that heads of state receive an appropriate welcome.

The briefing concluded with a discussion that addressed questions raised by the attending delegations.