Azerbaijan Champions Fossil Fuels at COP29

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, hosting COP29 in Baku, described the country's oil and gas reserves as a 'gift from God' and criticized Western nations for their 'double standards' in urging a transition to green energy while relying on fossil fuels. His remarks came as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged to reduce carbon emissions by 81% by 2035, emphasizing that the UK would not dictate lifestyle changes to meet this target. The summit has seen a notable absence of many world leaders, raising concerns about its effectiveness, as it struggles with allegations of being overshadowed by oil interests. Some officials have suggested that the conference is cluttered with side deals related to fossil fuels, undermining its primary climate goals. The contrasting perspectives at the summit highlight ongoing tensions between climate commitments and economic interests tied to fossil fuel production.