KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 11

President Ramchandra Paudel stated that climate change is the world's foremost issue during a meeting today with Azerbaijan's Minister of Justice, Farid Turab Ahmadov.

On this occasion, he emphasized that COP29 should prompt developed nations to reduce carbon emissions and fulfill their financial commitments to the climate fund, directing these resources toward developing countries disproportionately affected by climate change despite their minimal carbon footprint, according to the President's Press Advisor, Kiran Pokharel.

Minister Ahmadov concurred, noting that this objective aligns closely with COP29's primary agenda and highlighting the need to ensure fairness for developing nations. He also mentioned that while Azerbaijan lacks the towering mountains of Nepal, its water sources are beginning to dry up due to accelerated snowmelt.

President Paudel arrived in Baku, Azerbaijan, this afternoon, leading a high-level Nepali delegation to participate in the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Upon his arrival at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, he was warmly welcomed by Minister Ahmadov.

The President's delegation includes First Lady Sabita Paudel, alongside key advisors, climate experts, and senior government officials. Minister for Forests and Environment Ain Bahadur Shahi had arrived earlier in Baku to join COP29.

During the convention, President Paudel will address a high-level session at the World Leaders Climate Action Summit, a core event within COP29. He is also set to moderate a separate high-level session on behalf of Nepal, aimed at spotlighting the country's climate change agenda.

COP29 officially commenced today and will continue until November 21, with President Paudel scheduled to return to Nepal on November 15.