Tensions are rising at COP29 as participating nations clash over commitments to transition away from fossil fuels.
European and US negotiators are pushing for a reaffirmation of last year's pledge, which emphasized the need for enhanced efficiency and renewable energy sources. This is seen as crucial to maintain momentum in the global climate fight.
The discussions are further complicated by the requirement for countries to submit new, ambitious national climate strategies by February. These strategies must align with the goals set out in the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius.
At the heart of this year's negotiations is the need to replace the existing annual climate finance pledge of $100 billion with a larger commitment, estimated to exceed $1 trillion annually. This funding is crucial for assisting poorer nations in developing green economies and enhancing their resilience to the impacts of global warming.
Wealthier nations, including Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states, are under pressure to increase their financial contributions.
Saudi Arabia is leading a counter-effort to resist commitments to transition away from fossil fuels. The kingdom's representatives have not made public comments, but insiders indicate that there are deeper tensions regarding the future of fossil fuel reliance.
Saudi Arabia, as the world's largest crude oil exporter, is also pursuing a multitrillion-dollar initiative to diversify its economy away from oil dependency.
The COP29 talks are entering a critical phase where climate ministers will need to provide the necessary political will to resolve key issues. The Azerbaijani presidency faces the challenge of acting as a neutral broker in negotiations, despite the country's heavy reliance on fossil fuel exports.
The potential return of Donald Trump as US president could also impact the willingness of nations to commit to reducing their reliance on oil, gas, and coal.
As the negotiations progress, a unified approach to climate action becomes increasingly important. The inclusion of fossil fuel language in last year's agreement was a historic milestone, and leaders emphasize the importance of ensuring that this commitment is not lost in future discussions.
The outcome of COP29 will shape the immediate landscape of climate policy and have lasting implications for global efforts to combat climate change.