Minister Simon Watts attends crucial climate summit.
The New Zealand Climate Change Minister, Simon Watts, is set to attend the 29th annual United Nations Climate Change Summit (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. The summit, which starts this week, aims to make crucial decisions on implementing the Paris Agreement and reducing global emissions.
In a media release, Mr Watts stated that New Zealand is committed to meeting its climate targets and will continue to push for accelerated global action. He plans to focus on achieving tangible results at COP29, including pushing for an ambitious new global climate finance goal. This goal aims to provide financial support to developing countries to help them build resilience against the impacts of climate change.
Mr Watts will also co-chair negotiations on carbon markets alongside Singapore's Minister Fu, working towards a voluntary cooperation system that allows countries to transfer carbon credits earned under the Paris Agreement. Additionally, he will participate in the Pacific Ministers Roundtable and seek a decision to host COP31 in partnership with the Pacific in 2026.
Minister Watts is expected to arrive in Baku on November 17 after a stopover in London to meet with New Zealand businesses and insurers. He will return to New Zealand on November 24.