The Minister of Innovation and Growth is part of the Bulgarian delegation at the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 29)
The Minister of Innovation and Growth Rosen Karadimov participated in an energy forum at the Bulgarian pavilion at the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 29). The event was opened by President Roumen Radev and Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis. The forum was hosted by the Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov. Today’s day at the Bulgarian pavilion at the conference is dedicated to energy and the green transition.
During the energy forum, President Radev and Prime Minister Mitsotakis discussed energy connectivity and the promotion of production and storage of energy from renewable energy sources. The event was also attended by the Ministers of Energy of Romania, Sebastian Burduja, of Greece, Theodoros Skilakakis, of Belgium, Tine Van der Straaten, of Moldova, Viktor Parlikov, the Deputy Minister of Azerbaijan, Orhan Zhelyanov, and others.
The Ministry of Innovation and Growth through the Executive Agency for Small and Medium Enterprises is a co-organizer of the Bulgarian pavilion for the second year. Deputy Minister of Innovation and Growth Krasimir Yakimov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Bulgarian Development Bank Delyana Ivanova, representatives of IANMSP and the Bulgarian Investment Agency, etc., also participated in the events.
Within the framework of the pavilion, Bulgarian institutions and enterprises will have the opportunity to present innovative technologies and solutions in the field of climate and climate change.
As the host of COP 29, Azerbaijan is focusing on practical and positive solutions that drive the progress of the green economy and provide aid and support to vulnerable communities.
How do international collaborations at conferences like COP 29 influence environmental policy decisions?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Climate Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Dr. Elena Petrov, climate change expert and advisor at the Global Sustainability Initiative. Thank you for joining us today.
Dr. Elena Petrov (EP): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
TNE: I’d like to dive right into the recent events at COP 29. I understand that the Bulgarian Minister of Innovation and Growth, Rosen Karadimov, was present at the conference alongside notable leaders, including President Roumen Radev and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. What are your thoughts on the significance of Bulgaria’s participation?
EP: Bulgaria’s active involvement at COP 29 is crucial, especially given that smaller nations often bring unique perspectives and innovative solutions to the table. Minister Karadimov’s participation signals Bulgaria’s commitment to addressing climate change and its willingness to collaborate with other countries in finding collective solutions.
TNE: Absolutely! The energy forum at the Bulgarian pavilion seemed like a pivotal event. Can you explain why such forums are important at conferences like COP?
EP: Energy forums are vital because they serve as platforms to discuss sustainable energy solutions, share best practices, and promote collaboration among stakeholders. As our reliance on energy sources fuel climate change, conferences like COP 29 provide an opportunity to reassess strategies and pivot towards greener alternatives, which is exactly what this forum aimed to address.
TNE: It’s interesting to note the presence of high-profile leaders like President Radev and Prime Minister Mitsotakis. How does leadership from various nations impact the outcomes of such talks?
EP: Leadership plays a fundamental role in setting the tone for negotiations. When senior leaders are involved, it reflects the importance of the issues at hand and can galvanize commitment at multiple levels. Their endorsements of specific initiatives can encourage investment, push for policy changes, and foster international cooperation—which are essential for meaningful environmental progress.
TNE: Do you think there’s a specific focus or initiative that Bulgaria is advocating for at this conference?
EP: While specific initiatives were not detailed in the article, it’s likely that Bulgaria is focusing on sustainable energy development, which aligns with Minister Karadimov’s role. This could involve promoting renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency, and perhaps looking at how to leverage technology for growth while minimizing environmental impacts.
TNE: Interesting. With the growing emphasis on innovation in combating climate change, how important is it for countries to invest in technology and growth?
EP: Investment in technology and innovation is crucial. It can lead to the development of cleaner technologies, more efficient energy systems, and innovative practices in various sectors that contribute to sustainability. Countries that prioritize such investments are better positioned to meet their climate targets, enhance their economies, and improve overall resilience against climate impacts.
TNE: Moving forward, what do you believe should be the focus for Bulgaria and other countries represented at COP 29?
EP: I believe the key focus should be on actionable commitments that lead to tangible outcomes. This includes setting clear, measurable goals, fostering international partnerships, and prioritizing public engagement to raise awareness. Ultimately, it’s about translating dialogue into real-world initiatives that drive significant advancements in climate action.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for sharing your insights. As COP 29 progresses, we’ll certainly keep an eye on how these discussions develop into concrete actions.
EP: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for climate action, and I look forward to seeing the outcomes of this crucial conference.