Addressing the press today (21 Nov) at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, UN chief appealed to ministers and negotiators and said, “Keep your eyes on the bigger picture.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said, “COP29 is now down to the wire. I sense an appetite for agreement, but areas of convergence are coming into focus. But let’s be frank, many substantial differences are still remaining. Success is not yet guaranteed. We need a major push to get discussions over the finishing line.”
He also said, “International cooperation – centred on the Paris Agreement – is indispensable to climate action. Amidst geopolitical divisions and uncertainties, the world needs countries to come together here in Baku. So, I appeal directly to ministers and negotiators: soften hard lines. Navigate a path through your differences. And keep your eyes on the bigger picture.”
He stressed, “Never forget what is at stake. This is a COP to deliver justice in the face of climate catastrophe, to help move us closer to securing a decent world for all humanity.”
