President Radev at COP29: Extreme weather events pose a threat to people as well as to peace and security

Bulgaria's President, Rumen Radev, made a national statement at the World Leaders Climate Action Summit at COP29, the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan between November 11 and 22.

Radev said that extreme weather events threaten not only people and their livelihoods, but peace and security regionally and globally as well.

At the summit, the President presented Bulgaria's position on climate.

He stressed that the continuity of actions is crucial to deliver ambitious and balanced approach to achieve the climate goals in the complex geopolitical context.

In his address, the Bulgarian Head of State highlighted the stated main objective of COP29 related to climate funding, stressing that it should be provided from all existing sources, both public and private, and focus on the countries most vulnerable to climate change.

He noted that all should ensure that energy security remains the top priority.

"Bulgaria is committed not only to being part of regional energy cooperation initiatives in its region in Central and Eastern Europe, but more than that - to strengthen ties between EU and non-EU countries that share our priorities of climate neutrality, a just energy transition, energy security and low-carbon technological innovation," Radev said.

Rumen Radev called for continued support for climate science and education. And stated Bulgaria's firm commitment to climate policy goals. And earlier, at a discussion in the Bulgarian pavilion, he announced Bulgaria's ambition to actively participate in climate diplomacy.

Within the global forum, President Radev hosted a high-level discussion. Participants discussed the opportunities for developing a competitive economy against the backdrop of the EU's ambitions for zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The President recalled that the increase in number of natural disasters requires decisive action by all.

"Climate change now threatens not only people and their livelihoods, not only nature and its diversity, but regional and global peace and security as well.

And I believe that the way to achieve sustainable solutions in the fight against climate change is through exchange of experience and transfer of knowledge," Radev said.

In conclusion, the Head of State noted that only together can we achieve a better and more sustainable future for ourselves and for the generations after us.