The COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan ended after a 33-hour delay, nearly collapsing negotiations. The talks, which wrapped up early Sunday, saw intense protests from developing and vulnerable countries. UN climate head Simon Stiell acknowledged the challenges, saying, “It’s been a difficult journey, but we’ve delivered a deal.”
The summit made little progress on reducing global fossil fuel dependence, a key issue. Last year’s fossil fuel transition stalled. Tensions peaked Saturday when the Alliance of Small Island States walked out. Cedric Schuster, the group’s chair, said, “Our islands are sinking!”
After revisions, negotiators reached a deal, including a historic $300 billion pledge. However, fossil fuel reduction commitments were delayed until COP30 in 2025. India strongly opposed the deal, calling it insufficient.
The summit recognized that poorer nations suffer most from climate change. It agreed $1.3 trillion would be needed by 2035 for mitigation and adaptation. Concerns about US President Trump’s climate stance cast doubt on US climate finance.
Critics viewed the deal as a compromise but criticized its weak fossil fuel language. Azerbaijan’s gas expansion plans raised questions about its commitment to climate action. Despite compromises, UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband called the deal “a huge opportunity.”
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