This decision comes after Azerbaijan successfully negotiated an agreement with Armenia, overcoming previous objections and geopolitical complexities. This development is particularly significant in the context of the recent opposition by Russia to any European Union country hosting the event, in light of the EU’s sanctions over Russia’s involvement in Ukraine. Azerbaijan’s selection as the host country also indicates a shift in the diplomatic landscape, given the nation’s status as a non-EU member and its history of oil and gas production.
The agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, part of a broader initiative to improve relations between the two nations, was crucial in overcoming the deadlock and moving forward with the preparations for COP29.