Fears for climate pledges as Argentina leaves Cop29

Right-wing leader orders delegation to quit Baku summit

- STUTI MISHRA

Right-wing president Javier Milei has withdrawn Argentina’s delegation from the Cop29 climate summit in Baku.

The decision, confirmed by delegate officials, means the South American country will not participate any further in the UN negotiations that are expected to conclude with a treaty next week. It is not clear whether Argentina will leave the Paris Agreement altogether.

The delegation received an order to stop engaging in the negotiations on Wednesday evening, Climatica reported, just hours after the high-profile leaders’ address section of the Azerbaijan summit wrapped up. Another delegation from Argentina due to arrive in Baku next week was told to cancel its plans.

Argentina’s move adds to growing concerns about the influence of right-wing leaders on global climate commitments. Hopes for Cop29 were already dampened by Donald Trump’s return as US president and fears that he could once again withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement.

Mr Milei’s decision to withdraw from Cop29 aligns with his political stance and his intention to strengthen ties with the US. The Argentinian president is a denier of climate science and calls the environmental crisis a “socialist lie”.