Sharleen Mohammed
SPEAKER of the National Assembly, Hounourable Advocate Job Mudenda, met with his counterpart, Speaker Gafarova of Azerbaijan, to discuss how both countries can work together to tackle the serious effects of climate change amid revelations that it could result in an extra 14.5 million deaths and cost healthcare systems over $1.1 trillion worldwide.
The impacts of climate change are becoming clearer every day, and the statistics are alarming.
“We must act now to protect our people from the devastating effects of climate change,” Mudenda emphasized, highlighting the urgent need for global cooperation.
This sentiment was echoed by Gafarova, who noted, “Immediate and coordinated responses are essential to protect our economies and our people.”
During the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, the two nations took significant steps to strengthen their relationship. Key leaders engaged in discussions to enhance cooperation in combating climate change.
To achieve this, they identified areas of cooperation, including establishing a parliamentary friendship association to encourage exchanges between the nations and share successful governance practices. They also plan to promote cultural exchange by sharing culinary traditions to strengthen ties and foster deeper understanding between the peoples.
Speaker Mudenda noted, “By sharing our culinary traditions, we can build stronger connections and celebrate our cultures.”
Additionally, they emphasized the need for resilient health systems to safeguard populations against environmental threats.
He added, “We need to ensure our health systems are resilient.”
As their meeting concluded, Speaker Mudenda and Speaker Gafarova pledged to continue working together to address climate change and promote sustainable development.
Their commitment underscores the importance of global teamwork in tackling shared challenges, setting a positive tone for future collaboration between Zimbabwe and Azerbaijan
