With a welcoming gesture, he directed COP29 participants to passport control counters specially intended for them.
Leaving the airport, taxis line up in burgundy red, the trendy color for winter 2024-2025, and bearing COP29 advertising slogans.
A sturdy driver takes care of our luggage and places it in a comfortable car. He expresses his joy when he knows our country of origin. “Mərakeş gözəldir”, he said, repeating in broken English: “Marrakesh good”, in reference to the ocher city known in Azerbaijan and around the world for its tourist vocation.
“The City of Winds”, which is located east of Azerbaijan, on the edge of the Caspian Sea, did not skimp on the means to host the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention united on climate change (COP29).
Thus, COP29 delegates will have easy access to hundreds of taxis and more than 400 free shuttles connecting Heydar Aliyev International Airport to Baku‘s main transport hubs.
In this modest and proud city, the authorities did their best to manage the massive flows of visitors and ensure the smooth movement of guests and city residents during the conference.
They introduced special transport routes on city streets, marked with the COP29 logo. During this global event, only public transport and vehicles with special permits will be authorized to use these routes.
Additionally, 14 transport hubs will be installed in various key areas of the city throughout the conference, according to the COP29 Azerbaijan website.
Also, a new “COP29” category has been added to the Bolt and Yango carpooling apps to ensure easy and accessible transportation for international delegates and local participants attending this global climate mass.
Baku also has dedicated cycle paths in certain areas and offers bike sharing services such as BakuBike and Apar, providing a convenient and eco-friendly option for exploring the city. Electric scooters are also available.
In addition, 180 points of several banks and postal branches remained open on Friday and Saturday, public holidays due to Victory Day (“Zəfər Günü” in Azeri) and National Flag Day “Dövlət Bayrağı Günü”, to allow COP participants to exchange currencies.
Additionally, during these public holidays and throughout the COP period, a Central Bank hotline 966 will continue to serve citizens from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
In locations hosting COP29 proceedings, the focus will be on ensuring the continued operation of banks’ ATM and point-of-sale terminal infrastructure.
COP29, taking place November 11-22, will welcome official delegations from around the world who will join senior UN officials, representatives of civil society and other key sectors to measure progress and negotiate the best ways to fight climate change.
The countdown is on and the people of Bakin continue to walk the main streets of their city, shop in the malls and taste rose tea, all while talking in silence!
Interview between Time.news Editor and Climate Change Expert, Dr. Leyla Hamidova
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Hamidova. It’s wonderful to have you here to discuss the upcoming COP29. As the event approaches, what are your thoughts on the preparations being made in Baku?
Dr. Leyla Hamidova: Thank you for having me! I’m quite impressed with Baku’s efforts to host COP29. The city’s authorities are making substantial arrangements, from dedicated transportation routes to a significant increase in public transit options. This kind of infrastructural support is crucial for managing the flow of delegates and visitors efficiently.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely! I noticed the special taxi services featuring COP29 slogans. What do you think about the branding and visibility of such initiatives for climate-focused events?
Dr. Leyla Hamidova: The branding is an excellent move. It not only promotes awareness about COP29 but also engages the local population in the event. When citizens see these taxis and banners, it emphasizes the importance of climate action and encourages them to participate in discussions surrounding it. It can foster a sense of ownership and pride in hosting such a significant conference.
Time.news Editor: That’s an interesting perspective. The authorities have also introduced transport hubs and specific transport routes for the conference. How essential do you think these measures are in terms of logistics and sustainability?
Dr. Leyla Hamidova: They are absolutely vital. Efficient transportation can significantly reduce congestion and carbon emissions during the event. By implementing these controlled routes, Baku is prioritizing sustainability while ensuring that delegates can move around seamlessly. It sets a precedent for future events to consider how they can minimize their ecological footprints.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of sustainability, what key issues do you believe will be highlighted during COP29, especially considering the ongoing climate crisis?
Dr. Leyla Hamidova: I anticipate that discussions will center around greenhouse gas emissions reduction and climate justice. Countries will need to negotiate their commitments to emissions targets, with an emphasis on supporting vulnerable nations already feeling the impacts of climate change. Additionally, innovative solutions for renewable energy and sustainable development will likely take center stage.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a pivotal conference. As a researcher, how do you think Baku’s venue might impact the outcomes of COP29?
Dr. Leyla Hamidova: The venue can greatly influence the atmosphere of the conference. A welcoming and well-organized city can foster dialogue and networking among participants. Baku’s rich cultural tapestry and hospitality can encourage collaboration and openness, which are critical for reaching consensus on difficult topics.
Time.news Editor: That’s a hopeful outlook! What message do you think is important for the global audience to take away from COP29?
Dr. Leyla Hamidova: The message is clear: climate change is a global crisis that requires collective action. Countries must recognize their shared responsibility and work together toward sustainable solutions. The world is watching, and the decisions made at COP29 could define our future. It’s time to act, not just for ourselves but for generations to come.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Hamidova, for sharing your insights today. Your expertise reinforces the significance of COP29 and the hope for meaningful climate action.
Dr. Leyla Hamidova: Thank you for having me! Let’s hope for productive discussions and a commitment to lasting change.