The opening week of COP29 in Baku focused on distractions rather than decisive action, especially key financial commitments. Talks over how much rich nations should contribute to aid to developing countries have stalled as the figure remains unclear between $100 billion and $1.3 trillion.

It is hoped that the financial impasse will be resolved as ministers prepare to take part in discussions for the second week. United Nations Climate Secretary Simon Stiell underlined the threat to global emissions reduction targets and emphasized the urgency of faster decisions on important issues.

Despite distractions such as geopolitical tensions and calls for reform, leaders expressed cautious optimism. The main challenge remains to try to limit global temperature rise while keeping in mind the Paris Agreement target. With the window for agreement closing, all eyes are on the COP29 president’s direction of these complex negotiations.

(With input from institutions.)