Maldives begins preparation for this year's COP Summit

Maldives has begun preparations to participate in this year's Conference of the Parties (COP) Summit; the world's largest international annual climate summit.

This year will mark the 29th Summit, which will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan from 11 to 22 November.

At a press conference held at the President's Office on Thursday, Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Thoriq Ibrahaim said that Maldives will host four side events at the COP Summit this year.

These include a renewable energy event in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and an event on sustainable coral reef management, in Maldives' capacity as Atolls National Chair.

Maldives also plans to host another side event to launch Maldives' international transparency report.

Additionally, Maldives will also act in the capacity of Small Island Nations (SID)s' Climate Adaptation Ministerial Champion, Thoriq added.

He further said that Maldives would advocate for increased financial assistance to the Lost and Damage Fund.

"This is the first time Maldives is hosting so many side events," Thoriq said.

He also highlighted the Maldives' efforts to amplify the youth voice at this year's meeting, referring the Youth Track to COP29 event held just two weeks ago. The event aimed to raise awareness among young people about climate change and the significance of the COP Summit, he said.

“The statement prepared by the youth at the mock COP will be handed to the President to take to the Summit,” Thorig said.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, like last year, is scheduled to attend this year's COP Summit as well.