In brief
A secret recording of COP29 chief Elnur Soltanov has surfaced, showing him engaging in discussions to promote fossil fuel investments just ahead of the global climate conference in Baku.
In a shocking revelation, a secret recording has uncovered Azerbaijan's COP29 leader, Elnur Soltanov, allegedly promoting fossil fuel investment opportunities. As the chief executive of COP29 and deputy energy minister, Soltanov was seen discussing potential oil and gas deals with an individual posing as a prospective investor. He highlighted the numerous gas fields in Azerbaijan ripe for development while hinting at acceptable investments from firms, including those in the fossil fuel sector.Critics, including former UN climate officials, have deemed Soltanov's actions a "betrayal" of the COP process and a breach of expected conduct standards for officials at such pivotal climate discussions. With oil and gas constituting a significant portion of Azerbaijan's economy, Soltanov’s statements during the undercover meeting raise concerns about the integrity of COP29.A representative from the Global Witness organization conducted a sting operation, raising questions on the commitment of COP leaders to address climate change amid financial incentives. During discussions, Soltanov presented a mixed message, advocating for a just transition from hydrocarbons while simultaneously promoting investment in new gas projects.Christiana Figueres, a key figure behind the 2015 Paris Agreement, publicly criticized Soltanov’s behavior as contradictory to the objectives of COP, describing it as a "treason" against the climate mission. The United Nations has acknowledged the importance of impartiality for COP officials, reminding all parties involved that standards for conduct should reflect the urgent need to combat climate change.As COP29 opens, these revelations have cast a shadow over the conference's integrity and raised fundamental questions about the commitment of host nations to genuinely address the climate crisis, rather than leverage these discussions for fossil fuel promotion.
