Within the framework of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, "Azerbaijan Railways" CJSC (ADY) actively participated in events, once again demonstrating its significant role in sustainable transport and climate policy. Through participation in various discussions, roundtables, meetings, and agreements signed with partners, ADY reaffirmed its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and developing sustainable transportation systems.

As part of COP29, on November 19, ADY Chairman Rovshan Rustamov and Daniel Baer, Executive Vice President of Switzerland’s "Stadler Rail Group", signed an agreement on the establishment of a Training and Development Center, scheduled to open in 2027. The center will play an essential role in training qualified personnel in the railway sector and training machinists to operate "Stadler" trains.

ADY’s activities have drawn attention not only at the national level but also internationally. On November 20, during an event organized by the World Bank titled "Reliable Solutions for Accelerating Railway Operations," the role of Azerbaijan’s railway network in reducing carbon emissions and the importance of public funding in infrastructure development were highlighted.

On the same day, ADY and the International Union of Railways (UIC) jointly organized an event titled "Towards a Sustainable Future Through Transport Corridors: Railways in Climate Policy." This event focused on Azerbaijan’s significant role in combating climate change and its decisive contribution to reducing carbon emissions through its railway network.

During the event, speeches were delivered by the ADY Chairman, the Chairman of the Organization for Cooperation of Railways, the Chairman of the UIC and CEO of Polish Railways, the Director of the ADB Transport Sector Group, the Azerbaijan Director of "Masdar," and ADY’s Vice Chairman. Topics discussed included railways as an eco-friendly mode of transport, supporting initiatives to increase the use of renewable energy, and financing these initiatives by international financial institutions.

The discussions highlighted ADY’s achievements over the past two years, including a 9% reduction in carbon emissions, a 5% reduction in energy consumption, a 16% reduction in natural gas consumption, and a 23% reduction in water usage. Additionally, a "Railways Climate Commitment" document was signed between ADY and UIC.

ADY representatives actively participated in other important COP29 events and discussions. On November 20, at a discussion titled "Connecting Continents: Sustainable Transport and Logistics Along the Silk Road – Europe and Latin America," the ADY Chairman emphasized that, thanks to digital solutions, cargo transported via the Middle Corridor is three times faster than sea routes. The importance of strengthening international cooperation to achieve zero carbon emissions in rail transport was also underscored.

On the same day, ADY participated in the "Sustainable and Digital Middle Corridor and Beyond" ministerial roundtable. The event addressed strengthening collaboration and digitalizing operations to achieve zero carbon emissions in freight transportation along international transport corridors.

ADY also represented Azerbaijan at an event organized by the Marrakech Partnership for Global Climate Action titled "Ambitions for Transport: Advancing Towards a Just and Equitable 1.5°C Future." Panel discussions focused on Azerbaijan’s achievements in railway electrification and transitioning to renewable energy, as well as the role of Azerbaijan Railways within the framework of its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to reduce carbon emissions. It was noted that in 2023, 100% of passengers and 80% of freight transported by Azerbaijan Railways were powered by electricity.

Furthermore, the Head of ADY’s Communications Department participated in events on topics such as "New Opportunities in Urban Mobility: Mobilizing NDCs for Sustainable Transport and Combating Climate Change" and "The Role of Corporations in Sustainable Development."

All the initiatives proposed and achievements highlighted during these events contribute to Azerbaijan’s leadership in climate policy. ADY’s efforts toward sustainable transport and environmental protection aim to enhance the country’s international reputation. The documents signed and new cooperation prospects developed during COP29 support the advancement of an environmentally sustainable transport system.