DAVOS, Switzerland, January 20. Azerbaijan’s
hosting of COP29 and its commitment to renewable energy transition
demonstrate the country’s long-term strategy beyond hydrocarbons,
Damion Potter, Chairman for UK and Global Public Affairs at
H/Advisors, told reporters on the sidelines of the World Economic
Forum in Davos, Trend
reports.
He emphasized that Azerbaijan’s contributions to global climate
diplomacy extend far beyond merely hosting significant
international events, underpinned by substantial and actionable
commitments.
Potter specifically highlighted Azerbaijan’s pledge to export
renewable energy as one of the most concrete and impactful outcomes
arising from COP29.
“I was particularly struck by Azerbaijan’s commitment to
exporting 8 gigawatts of renewable energy to neighboring countries
and Europe,” he noted, emphasizing the ambitious timeline for the
initiative.
“That’s an effort that didn’t have to be accomplished as swiftly
as Azerbaijan is aiming to do by 2032, but it is happening, largely
due to the commitments made at COP29,” Potter concluded.
He also highlighted that Azerbaijan’s international profile has
been steadily growing through major cultural, sporting, and
investment-related initiatives.
“To see the Formula One circuit in downtown Baku, UFC already
having been in Azerbaijan, and major international events hosted
there, reminds people about the beauty of Azerbaijan and the
pleasure of being able to visit,” he said.
Potter stressed that these developments help position the
country as an attractive destination for investment beyond
traditional extractive industries.
“There is a long-term strategy to transition beyond petroleum
and into other renewables for the good of the people of
Azerbaijan,” he said. “It helps with prosperity, but it also helps
with our everyday lives as we breathe cleaner air and supports
other countries beyond the South Caucasus as well.”
