“The expression "oil country" has recently been used in a negative context, and I do not accept this expression in that sense. Because the world's economic system is based on oil, gas, and coal,” Chief Executive Officer of COP29, Elnur Soltanov said in an interview with APA.
“The sale and purchase of hydrocarbons is free, not compulsory. In this framework, all countries are oil countries - either as producers or consumers. Although oil and gas are highlighted, it should not be forgotten that coal is also a hydrocarbon, and it is coal that produces the most emissions among fuels in this category. Azerbaijan's per capita greenhouse gas emissions are lower than the European and world averages. In general, Azerbaijan ranks 70-75 in the world in the system of emissions, and our share is around one in a thousand. For us, being an oil country is a source of pride, because as an oil country, Azerbaijan has stimulated the development of the whole world. It is not morally correct to reach the highest stage of development by polluting the world with greenhouse gases, and then looking back and chastising some developing countries as "oil countries". Everyone should try to contribute to the process as much as possible. This is the criterion. However, it should not be forgotten that we have common but different responsibilities, different capabilities, and different national characteristics, as stipulated by the climate agreements. Green transition is a must, but a fair green transition is the only way. The emissions of the first 6 countries in the world make up 60% of the total emissions, and the emissions of the G20 countries make up about 80% of the emissions,” Chief Executive Officer of COP29 emphasized.
He added that although Azerbaijan have quite large hard coal deposits, it does not use them: “Hard coal is 80% dirtier than natural gas. For comparison, hard coal is used quite widely in the European Union itself. As Mr. President said, the main measure is not the country's possession of oil and gas, but the steps they take in the direction of the green transition, and their contribution to this process. If we look at it from this point of view, Azerbaijan's climate activities are commendable in the mildest way."
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