Sun Nov 10 11:28:56 UTC 2024: ## Taliban Delegation to Attend UN Climate Conference for First Time
**KABUL, Afghanistan -** For the first time since seizing control of Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban will attend the UN climate conference, COP29, which begins on Monday in Azerbaijan. The country’s National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) confirmed on Sunday that a technical delegation has departed for Baku.
NEPA director general, Mawlawi Matiul Haq Khalis, stated that the delegation will utilize the conference to strengthen international environmental cooperation, advocate for Afghanistan’s access to climate finance, and discuss adaptation and mitigation efforts.
Experts warn that climate change poses significant challenges for Afghanistan, a country already vulnerable due to its geographic location and weak climate policies. Professor Hayatullah Mashwani of Kabul University noted that rising temperatures have led to water scarcity, droughts, and a significant impact on agriculture, resulting in food insecurity and livelihood challenges.
A recent report by Save the Children highlighted Afghanistan’s vulnerability, ranking it sixth among countries most susceptible to climate change impacts. The report also revealed that 25 out of Afghanistan’s 34 provinces are experiencing severe or catastrophic drought conditions, affecting over half the population. Furthermore, as of the end of 2023, Afghanistan had the highest number of children made homeless by climate disasters globally.
Professor Abid Arabzai from Kabul University expressed optimism that the conference will facilitate the securing of international assistance and funding to address Afghanistan’s climate challenges. He believes that participation in COP29 will allow Afghanistan to clarify its climate actions and commitments to the global community, enhancing its international reputation.
The Taliban’s participation in COP29 marks a significant step towards international engagement on environmental issues, despite the lack of official recognition as the legitimate rulers of Afghanistan. The conference offers a platform for the Taliban to demonstrate their commitment to addressing climate change and potentially garnering support from the international community.
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