A recent undercover investigation has sparked controversy ahead of the COP29 climate summit, with footage suggesting that the event’s chief executive, Elnur Soltanov, was willing to facilitate fossil fuel deals.
The recording, released by the environmental group Global Witness, has reignited calls for a ban on fossil fuel companies and their lobbyists at future climate talks.
The investigation revealed that Soltanov, who serves as Azerbaijan’s deputy energy minister and COP29’s chief executive, was approached by a fake oil and gas group posing as event sponsors.
In the conversation, Soltanov appeared to offer access to key stakeholders, including executives from the national oil and gas company Socar, to discuss potential investment opportunities.
He even described natural gas as a “transitional fuel” and suggested that fossil fuels might be part of the global energy mix “perhaps forever,” contradicting the UN’s climate goals outlined in the Paris Agreement.
Global Witness calls for a ban on fossil fuel lobbyists at future climate talks.This revelation comes at a time when the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is under increasing scrutiny.
The body, that oversees COP, emphasizes that officials must act without self-interest, but the footage paints a troubling picture of private interests at play.
The conversation also revealed a willingness to waive environmental requirements for sponsors, such as commitments to net-zero emissions, in exchange for financial backing.
Global Witness condemned the situation, urging the UNFCCC to take immediate action to prevent fossil fuel influence in climate negotiations.
The scandal mirrors a similar controversy at COP28, where the UAE used climate talks to promote oil and gas deals.
As COP29 approaches, the calls for reform are growing louder, with activists demanding a clear break from the fossil fuel industry to ensure the summit’s credibility and focus on meaningful climate action.