With the COP29 summit in Baku ending in two days, climate activists have gathered at the United Nations climate summit to call for a new deal. That will provide significantly more funding for vulnerable countries. Have a look...

COP29: Climate Activists Demand 'New Deal' In Baku

As COP29 completed day four in Azerbaijan, Baku activists at COP29 display giant letters reading pay up under risers at Baku Stadium to demand developed Nations provide more funding to combat climate change. The situation Pops at a time when early efforts to reach a financial deal risk being are overshadowed by diplomatic rows. Watch in for more details!

COP29 Climate Finance Talks: Demonstrators Chant 'Trillion, Not Billions', Call For Financing

While negotiators work behind closed doors at the&nbsp;COP29&nbsp;talks to thrash out a climate finance deal, the spotlight has been largely stolen by diplomatic turmoil.

France's Environment Minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher said Wednesday she would not travel to Baku after Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev accused Paris of colonial "crimes" and "human rights violations" in its overseas territories.

Pannier-Runacher called his speech "unacceptable... and beneath the dignity of the presidency of the COP."

Attempting to calm the waters on Thursday,&nbsp;COP29&nbsp;lead negotiator Yalchin Rafiyev insisted that Azerbaijan had fostered "an inclusive process".

"We have opened our doors to everybody to come to engage in very constructive, fruitful discussions," he told reporters.

"Our doors are still open."

Relations between Paris and Baku have long been tense over France's support for Azerbaijan's arch-rival Armenia.

Azerbaijan defeated Armenia in a lightning offensive last year when it retook the breakaway Armenian-populated region of Nagorno-Karabakh -- leading to an exodus of more than 100,000 Armenians.

<h2>'Diplomatic matter'&nbsp;</h2>

Aliyev has hailed the victory in remarks to delegates and also raised eyebrows by insisting natural resources including carbon-emitting fossil fuels were a "gift from God".

The EU's climate commissioner said the climate talks "should be a place where all parties feel at liberty to come and negotiate."

"The COP Presidency has a particular responsibility to enable and enhance that," Wopke Hoekstra posted on X.

Compounding the diplomatic turmoil, Argentina's delegation was abruptly pulled from the talks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiLwLOjjNyJAxVgdPUHHak5L90QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cop29-climate-summit-opens-after-trump-win-with-call-for-cooperation-775217" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/cop29-climate-summit-opens-after-trump-win-with-call-for-cooperation-775217&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiLwLOjjNyJAxVgdPUHHak5L90QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">COP29 climate summit opens with call for cooperation after Trump win</a>

An environment ministry source confirmed the departure but declined to offer more detail.

Argentina's anti-establishment President Javier Milei has made no secret of his scepticism of climate change and is an ally of newly reelected former US president Donald Trump.

While Argentina's delegation was small, its departure "is unprecedented in the country's diplomatic history", said Oscar Soria, an Argentine environmental activist and director of the Common Initiative.

Rafiyev declined to be drawn on the departure.

"We hope that all who are attending here have only one intention, to come to join us in this collective effort to get an outcome that is positive," he said.

<h2>'Very worried'</h2>

But progress on the key goal of the talks -- a new climate finance deal -- is proving grindingly slow.

The main fault line is clear: how much should developed countries pay to help poorer nations adapt to climate change and transition away from fossil fuels.

Watch:&nbsp;Can COP29 Give Solution to Climate Change?

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Rich nations are reluctant to increase the $100-billion a year already committed, conscious of domestic publics angry about inflation and stuttering economies.

But developing countries warn they need at least $1 trillion to defend against the ravages of climate change and meet commitments to reach net-zero emissions.

Sources described ongoing discussions as difficult, with negotiators struggling to wrestle a draft text into a reasonable form before ministers arrive in a few days to start nailing down a deal.

The EU's lead negotiator Jacob Werksman said he was "very worried" about the slow process."

"We are way off a landing ground."

Hanging over proceedings is the question of what role the United States will play on climate action and funding after Trump returns to the White House in January.

He has pledged to again withdraw from the landmark Paris agreement, raising questions about what US negotiators can deliver in Baku.

"I think it's fair to say that there's some uncertainty in the next administration," conceded Jake Levine, the White House's senior director for climate and energy.

But the need to "project American values" would be a powerful driver for continued climate funding and action, he added.

"We cannot cede the playing field to China, to our competitors... So I think that you will see a continued American presence."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

While negotiators work behind closed doors at the COP29 talks to thrash out a climate finance deal, the spotlight has been largely stolen by diplomatic turmoil. France's Environment Minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher said Wednesday she would not travel to Baku after Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev accused Paris of colonial "crimes" and "human rights violations" in its overseas territories.

While negotiators work behind closed doors at the COP29 talks to thrash out a climate finance deal, the spotlight has been largely stolen by diplomatic turmoil. France's Environment Minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher said Wednesday she would not travel to Baku after Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev accused Paris of colonial "crimes" and "human rights violations" in its overseas territories. Pannier-Runacher called his speech "unacceptable... and beneath the dignity of the presidency of the COP." Attempting to calm the waters on Thursday, COP29 lead negotiator Yalchin Rafiyev insisted that Azerbaijan had fostered "an inclusive process". "We have opened our doors to everybody to come to engage in very constructive, fruitful discussions," he told reporters. "Our doors are still open." Relations between Paris and Baku have long been tense over France's support for Azerbaijan's arch-rival Armenia. Azerbaijan defeated Armenia in a lightning offensive last year when it retook the breakaway Armenian-populated region of Nagorno-Karabakh -- leading to an exodus of more than 100,000 Armenians. 'Diplomatic matter' Aliyev has hailed the victory in remarks to delegates and also raised eyebrows by insisting natural resources including carbon-emitting fossil fuels were a "gift from God". The EU's climate commissioner said the climate talks "should be a place where all parties feel at liberty to come and negotiate." "The COP Presidency has a particular responsibility to enable and enhance that," Wopke Hoekstra posted on X. Compounding the diplomatic turmoil, Argentina's delegation was abruptly pulled from the talks. Also read: COP29 climate summit opens with call for cooperation after Trump win An environment ministry source confirmed the departure but declined to offer more detail. Argentina's anti-establishment President Javier Milei has made no secret of his scepticism of climate change and is an ally of newly reelected former US president Donald Trump. While Argentina's delegation was small, its departure "is unprecedented in the country's diplomatic history", said Oscar Soria, an Argentine environmental activist and director of the Common Initiative. Rafiyev declined to be drawn on the departure. "We hope that all who are attending here have only one intention, to come to join us in this collective effort to get an outcome that is positive," he said. 'Very worried' But progress on the key goal of the talks -- a new climate finance deal -- is proving grindingly slow. The main fault line is clear: how much should developed countries pay to help poorer nations adapt to climate change and transition away from fossil fuels. Watch: Can COP29 Give Solution to Climate Change? × Rich nations are reluctant to increase the $100-billion a year already committed, conscious of domestic publics angry about inflation and stuttering economies. But developing countries warn they need at least $1 trillion to defend against the ravages of climate change and meet commitments to reach net-zero emissions. Sources described ongoing discussions as difficult, with negotiators struggling to wrestle a draft text into a reasonable form before ministers arrive in a few days to start nailing down a deal. The EU's lead negotiator Jacob Werksman said he was "very worried" about the slow process." "We are way off a landing ground." Hanging over proceedings is the question of what role the United States will play on climate action and funding after Trump returns to the White House in January. He has pledged to again withdraw from the landmark Paris agreement, raising questions about what US negotiators can deliver in Baku. "I think it's fair to say that there's some uncertainty in the next administration," conceded Jake Levine, the White House's senior director for climate and energy. But the need to "project American values" would be a powerful driver for continued climate funding and action, he added. "We cannot cede the playing field to China, to our competitors... So I think that you will see a continued American presence." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Diplomatic tensions shadow COP29 talks as nations struggle to hammer out climate finance deal

The United Nations has been hosting a climate meeting called the conference of the parties or COP every year for over 30 years. Global warming's worst impacts are discussed as delegates from different parts of the world gather in one location to try to find solutions. One of the world's biggest oil and gas-dependent nations is hosting COP for the second year in a row. While governments are speaking the language, they are not funding the movement entirely.

COP29 Climate Summit: New Multi-Trillion-Dollar Annual Finance Goal Eyed At COP29

The host of the UN climate summit in Azerbaijan on Tuesday defended fossil fuels and the right of countries to exploit them as dozens of world leaders arrived for the COP29 conference. Watch this report for more details!

Can COP29 Give Solution to Climate Change?

Azerbaijan Defends Fossil Fuels at COP29

During the COP29 summit many visitors in Baku were taken by surprise to see--and even smell, what looked like a real dead whale stranded on shore...A life-size replica of a beached sperm whale has been placed at a Baku waterfront to raise awareness about the effects of climate change.. Watch in for more details!

COP29: Beached Whale Art Installation Appears On Shore

India on Tuesday (Nov 12) emphasised the need for a carbon market mechanism at the annual COP29 climate negotiations currently underway in Baku, Azerbaijan. India called for a mechanism that doesn’t create trade barriers, while also pitching a recalibration of climate finance under the updated goals. The New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) asks developed nations to offer annual climate finance for climate action projects in developing countries.

India also called on developed nations to provide financing that is “adequate, predictable, accessible, grant-based, low-interest, and long-term”. New Delhi also stressed the need to establish carbon market mechanisms under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement that utilise carbon credits to incentivise low-carbon development, without creating barriers to trade.

<h2>World’s top banks vow $120bn aid to poorer nations</h2>

The world’s largest multilateral development banks (MDBs) on Tuesday meanwhile introduced a climate financing scheme, pledging $120 billion to poorer nations by the year 2030.

This marks a significant hike from the $75 billion raised in 2023 and a mere $60.9 billion raised in 2022 by the MDBs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiaz7PKj9eJAxXliK8BHb_6EfUQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/autonews/cop29-to-spotlight-divided-global-energy-transitions-amid-us-climate-setbacks-775518" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/autonews/cop29-to-spotlight-divided-global-energy-transitions-amid-us-climate-setbacks-775518&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiaz7PKj9eJAxXliK8BHb_6EfUQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">COP29 to spotlight divided global energy transitions amid U.S. climate setbacks</a>

Notably, MDB group includes major institutions like the World Bank, the European Investment Bank and the Asian Development Bank. "While the scale of MDBs' financial commitments is essential, MDBs’ most significant impact comes from our ability to drive transformative change," the group said in a statement.

<h2>UN climate chief says action on climate change ‘robust’</h2>

Earlier, the UN climate chief Simon Stiell told the gathering that despite the victory of Donald Trump in US, global action on climate change remains “robust.” Trump earlier vowed to withdraw US from the Paris Agreement.

“Many of you have been reporting on the climate implications of political events in the last weeks. I’ll just say this: our process is strong. It’s robust, and it will endure,” said Stiell.

Watch:&nbsp;World Leaders Skip COP29 Summit In Baku

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Washington’s top envoy, John Podesta, also said Trump’s victory didn’t threaten American co-operation on the issue of climate change.

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Tuesday (Nov 12) emphasised the need for a carbon market mechanism at the annual COP29 climate negotiations currently underway in Baku, Azerbaijan. India called for a mechanism that doesn’t create trade barriers, while also pitching a recalibration of climate finance under the updated goals.

India on Tuesday (Nov 12) emphasised the need for a carbon market mechanism at the annual COP29 climate negotiations currently underway in Baku, Azerbaijan. India called for a mechanism that doesn’t create trade barriers, while also pitching a recalibration of climate finance under the updated goals. The New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) asks developed nations to offer annual climate finance for climate action projects in developing countries. India also called on developed nations to provide financing that is “adequate, predictable, accessible, grant-based, low-interest, and long-term”. New Delhi also stressed the need to establish carbon market mechanisms under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement that utilise carbon credits to incentivise low-carbon development, without creating barriers to trade. World’s top banks vow $120bn aid to poorer nations The world’s largest multilateral development banks (MDBs) on Tuesday meanwhile introduced a climate financing scheme, pledging $120 billion to poorer nations by the year 2030. This marks a significant hike from the $75 billion raised in 2023 and a mere $60.9 billion raised in 2022 by the MDBs. Also read: COP29 to spotlight divided global energy transitions amid U.S. climate setbacks Notably, MDB group includes major institutions like the World Bank, the European Investment Bank and the Asian Development Bank. "While the scale of MDBs' financial commitments is essential, MDBs’ most significant impact comes from our ability to drive transformative change," the group said in a statement. UN climate chief says action on climate change ‘robust’ Earlier, the UN climate chief Simon Stiell told the gathering that despite the victory of Donald Trump in US, global action on climate change remains “robust.” Trump earlier vowed to withdraw US from the Paris Agreement. “Many of you have been reporting on the climate implications of political events in the last weeks. I’ll just say this: our process is strong. It’s robust, and it will endure,” said Stiell. Watch: World Leaders Skip COP29 Summit In Baku × Washington’s top envoy, John Podesta, also said Trump’s victory didn’t threaten American co-operation on the issue of climate change. (With inputs from agencies)

COP 29: India pitches for fair carbon market scheme; top banks pledge $120bn aid to poor nations

At COP29, Azerbaijan argues for continued fossil fuel reliance amid energy demands, while the UK announces new measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting diverging approaches in global climate action.

COP29: Azerbaijan Defends Fossil Fuels As UK Pledges Emission Cuts

The annual United Nations climate change conference or the conference of the parties of the UNCCC the COP 29 opened on Monday in Azerbaijan with renewed calls for a climate finance goal. As the summit opened the World Meteorological Organization warned that this year is on track to be the warmest on record. Watch in for more details!

COP29 In Baku: WMO Chief Says 'Still Hope For' 1.5C Warming Target

COP29 In Baku: Nations Approve New UN Rules On Carbon Markets At COP29

The 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP29) kicks off on Monday in Baku, Azerbaijan, bringing together heads of state and government leaders to address the escalating climate crisis and explore solutions. Watch this report for more details!

UN's COP29 Climate Change Summit Begins in Azerbaijan

Cuba, Sri Lanka, and Azerbaijan have expressed interest in joining the BRICS bloc, which currently includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. These nations aim to strengthen economic ties, enhance political influence, and gain access to BRICS' growing global trade network. Expanding the BRICS membership could boost cooperation among developing nations and challenge the dominance of Western-led institutions in global affairs.

Cuba, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan Among Nations Who Want To Join BRICS

As the UN climate summit COP29 approaches, Azerbaijan, the host nation, is unveiling a range of voluntary initiatives to supplement the official agenda. With COP29 just two months away, Azerbaijan has revealed over a dozen voluntary initiatives aimed at enhancing the climate summit's outcomes.

Azerbaijan introduces voluntary climate actions in COP29

As the UN climate summit cop29 approaches, Azerbaijan, the host nation, is unveiling a range of voluntary initiatives to supplement the official agenda, and enhance the climate summit's outcomes.

$1 billion climate finance fund proposed

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc secured pole for the fourth consecutive year at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Saturday ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri.

As title challenger Lando Norris of McLaren qualified only 17th, the Monegasque driver, who won the Italian Grand Prix at Monza in his last outing, continued his supreme single-lap form to wind up three-tenths of a second ahead of Piastri.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/diamond-league-armand-duplantis-basks-in-best-ever-season-not-rushing-for-more-exhibitions-758651">Diamond League: Armand Duplantis basks in 'best-ever' season, not rushing for more exhibitions</a>

It was the 26th pole of his career at a track where he has yet to win.&nbsp;

Carlos Sainz was third in the second Ferrari and Sergio Perez fourth for Red Bull ahead of Mercedes' George Russell.&nbsp;

Three-time world champion and series leader Max Verstappen was sixth in the second Red Bull as his recent struggles continued.

Verstappen leads Norris by 62 points in the title race with eight races of the season remaining.&nbsp;

Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton was seventh for Mercedes ahead of two-time champion Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin, Argentine new boy Franco Colapinto of Williams and his team-mate Alex Albon.&nbsp;

"It's one of my favourite tracks of the season," said Leclerc.

"It hasn't been an easy weekend for me with the crash in first practice and then a problem in second practice with a new part.

"I wasnt worried, but the pace was already there and in my last lap I went for it a bit more. It is amazing to be on pole again!"

The session began in slanting sunshine across the old city by the Caspian Sea, the Mercedes duo quick to enter the fray on medium tyres for two exploratory laps of the slippery street track.&nbsp;

As the conditions improved, Leclerc produced a lap in 1:42.775 to go top while Mercedes switched to softs, Russell swiftly jumping to second and Hamilton to fourth.&nbsp;

But in a final scrabble for places, as Piastri went third behind Leclerc and Albon, Norris pitted and missed the cut, eliminated in 17th&nbsp;place ahead of only the Saubers and Alpine’s Esteban Ocon. RB's Daniel Ricciardo was also out.

It was Norris's first Q1 elimination since the Las Vegas race last year (2023).&nbsp;

"The lap was good enough, but it was a yellow flag so I had to back off," said Norris.&nbsp;

Q2 saw Verstappen on top ahead of Leclerc with Perez and Sainz third and fourth.&nbsp;

After a final flurry, Alonso rose to fifth and Colapinto to sixth while Albon hung on to 10th&nbsp;to push Bearman out in 11th&nbsp;along with RB's Yuki Tsunoda, Alpine's Pierre Gasly, Nico Hulkenberg of Haas and Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll.

The top-ten shootout began with Leclerc, in 1:46.610, on top ahead of Sainz after an early lap by Russell.&nbsp;

As the final laps began, Albon left the pits with an airbox fan still attached to his Williams car. He pulled it off and threw it to a marshal.&nbsp;

This bizarre incident did not distract Ferrari or Leclerc, however, as he reeled off 1:43.365 to grab his fourth consecutive Baku pole.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc secured pole for the fourth consecutive year at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Saturday ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri. As title challenger Lando Norris of McLaren qualified only 17th, the Monegasque driver, who won the Italian Grand Prix at Monza in his last outing, continued his supreme single-lap form to wind up three-tenths of a second ahead of Piastri.

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc secured pole for the fourth consecutive year at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Saturday ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri. As title challenger Lando Norris of McLaren qualified only 17th, the Monegasque driver, who won the Italian Grand Prix at Monza in his last outing, continued his supreme single-lap form to wind up three-tenths of a second ahead of Piastri. Also Read: Diamond League: Armand Duplantis basks in 'best-ever' season, not rushing for more exhibitions It was the 26th pole of his career at a track where he has yet to win. Carlos Sainz was third in the second Ferrari and Sergio Perez fourth for Red Bull ahead of Mercedes' George Russell. Three-time world champion and series leader Max Verstappen was sixth in the second Red Bull as his recent struggles continued. Verstappen leads Norris by 62 points in the title race with eight races of the season remaining. Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton was seventh for Mercedes ahead of two-time champion Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin, Argentine new boy Franco Colapinto of Williams and his team-mate Alex Albon. "It's one of my favourite tracks of the season," said Leclerc. "It hasn't been an easy weekend for me with the crash in first practice and then a problem in second practice with a new part. "I wasnt worried, but the pace was already there and in my last lap I went for it a bit more. It is amazing to be on pole again!" The session began in slanting sunshine across the old city by the Caspian Sea, the Mercedes duo quick to enter the fray on medium tyres for two exploratory laps of the slippery street track. As the conditions improved, Leclerc produced a lap in 1:42.775 to go top while Mercedes switched to softs, Russell swiftly jumping to second and Hamilton to fourth. But in a final scrabble for places, as Piastri went third behind Leclerc and Albon, Norris pitted and missed the cut, eliminated in 17th place ahead of only the Saubers and Alpine’s Esteban Ocon. RB's Daniel Ricciardo was also out. It was Norris's first Q1 elimination since the Las Vegas race last year (2023). "The lap was good enough, but it was a yellow flag so I had to back off," said Norris. Q2 saw Verstappen on top ahead of Leclerc with Perez and Sainz third and fourth. After a final flurry, Alonso rose to fifth and Colapinto to sixth while Albon hung on to 10th to push Bearman out in 11th along with RB's Yuki Tsunoda, Alpine's Pierre Gasly, Nico Hulkenberg of Haas and Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll. The top-ten shootout began with Leclerc, in 1:46.610, on top ahead of Sainz after an early lap by Russell. As the final laps began, Albon left the pits with an airbox fan still attached to his Williams car. He pulled it off and threw it to a marshal. This bizarre incident did not distract Ferrari or Leclerc, however, as he reeled off 1:43.365 to grab his fourth consecutive Baku pole. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Ferrari's Charles Leclerc on pole, Red Bull's Max Verstappen to start sixth

Max Verstappen will look for an improved personal and team performance this weekend when Red Bull seek to stop the rot and stay on top in the Formula One title race at this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix. After a run of six races without a win that has coincided with the revival of his rivals, the Dutchman arrives in&nbsp;Baku&nbsp;with a 62-point lead in the drivers' championship ahead of Lando Norris. His team's advantage ahead of McLaren has also been trimmed to only eight points.&nbsp;

Verstappen's and Red Bull's last victory, his 61st, came at the Spanish Grand Prix in June while team-mate Sergio Perez last won on the streets of&nbsp;Baku, claiming his sixth career triumph and second in Azerbaijan in last year's race.

Red Bull's supreme domination that has seen them leading the constructors' championship for more than two years, since the 2022 Spanish Grand Prix, will end if McLaren outscore them by nine points on Sunday.

In the aftermath of Aston Martin's glossy unveiling of Red Bull's star designer Adrian Newey as future managing technical partner on Tuesday, another defeat to knock them off the top could be seen as significant.

Both Verstappen and Mexican Perez have been busy working on finding solutions to their slump in form since Charles Leclerc claimed victory for Ferrari at Monza on September 1.

"Monza was a tough race for us and it is our priority to get our form back to where it needs to be," said Verstappen. "We always want to be more competitive and the team has been working hard on the issues we've had."

"We've had a good period of reflection and work since the last race," said Perez. "Both Max and I have been in the factory working to ensure we are finding a fix for the problems. "To get back to where we should be on the grid, it will take a team effort and you can see that every day in Milton Keynes. This has pulled us all together."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/news-formula-1-engine-makers-honda-and-alpine-breach-cost-cap-announces-fia-757896">Formula 1 engine makers Honda and Alpine breach cost cap, announces FIA</a>

<h2>- Perez leaning on&nbsp;Baku&nbsp;memories -</h2>

Perez finished eighth at Monza, two places behind three-time world champion Verstappen, while both Ferraris, both McLarens and Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton filled the top five.

After a season of much speculation about his future at Red Bull following a string of poor results, he welcomes the return to a venue he likes. He is the only two-time winner in&nbsp;Baku&nbsp;and has scored more points there than any other driver.

"Personally, I love to race there," he said. "Street circuits suit my style and&nbsp;Baku&nbsp;is a fun track."

Ferrari will also be filled with hope in&nbsp;Baku&nbsp;after their success with an upgraded car at Monza where revisions to the floor and other areas proved successful.

But team chief Fred Vasseur stressed that the team will be focused on consistency and not checking the championship standings this weekend as they chase down Red Bull and McLaren.

"We have to focus on doing a good job every weekend and if something has to come to us, it will come. It's no good to focus on the championship and be conservative... everything can change so much from one week to the next."

With McLaren and Mercedes both claiming wins in recent races, a close scrap on the fast and challenging street track is in prospect, with Ferrari's reserve driver Oliver Bearman replacing Kevin Magnussen alongside Nico Hulkenberg at Haas.

Dane Magnussen has been banned after accumulating 12 penalty points.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Max Verstappen will look for an improved personal and team performance this weekend when Red Bull seek to stop the rot and stay on top in the Formula One title race at this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

Max Verstappen will look for an improved personal and team performance this weekend when Red Bull seek to stop the rot and stay on top in the Formula One title race at this weekend's Azerbaijan Grand Prix. After a run of six races without a win that has coincided with the revival of his rivals, the Dutchman arrives in Baku with a 62-point lead in the drivers' championship ahead of Lando Norris. His team's advantage ahead of McLaren has also been trimmed to only eight points. Verstappen's and Red Bull's last victory, his 61st, came at the Spanish Grand Prix in June while team-mate Sergio Perez last won on the streets of Baku, claiming his sixth career triumph and second in Azerbaijan in last year's race. Red Bull's supreme domination that has seen them leading the constructors' championship for more than two years, since the 2022 Spanish Grand Prix, will end if McLaren outscore them by nine points on Sunday. In the aftermath of Aston Martin's glossy unveiling of Red Bull's star designer Adrian Newey as future managing technical partner on Tuesday, another defeat to knock them off the top could be seen as significant. Both Verstappen and Mexican Perez have been busy working on finding solutions to their slump in form since Charles Leclerc claimed victory for Ferrari at Monza on September 1. "Monza was a tough race for us and it is our priority to get our form back to where it needs to be," said Verstappen. "We always want to be more competitive and the team has been working hard on the issues we've had." "We've had a good period of reflection and work since the last race," said Perez. "Both Max and I have been in the factory working to ensure we are finding a fix for the problems. "To get back to where we should be on the grid, it will take a team effort and you can see that every day in Milton Keynes. This has pulled us all together." Also read: Formula 1 engine makers Honda and Alpine breach cost cap, announces FIA - Perez leaning on Baku memories - Perez finished eighth at Monza, two places behind three-time world champion Verstappen, while both Ferraris, both McLarens and Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton filled the top five. After a season of much speculation about his future at Red Bull following a string of poor results, he welcomes the return to a venue he likes. He is the only two-time winner in Baku and has scored more points there than any other driver. "Personally, I love to race there," he said. "Street circuits suit my style and Baku is a fun track." Ferrari will also be filled with hope in Baku after their success with an upgraded car at Monza where revisions to the floor and other areas proved successful. But team chief Fred Vasseur stressed that the team will be focused on consistency and not checking the championship standings this weekend as they chase down Red Bull and McLaren. "We have to focus on doing a good job every weekend and if something has to come to us, it will come. It's no good to focus on the championship and be conservative... everything can change so much from one week to the next." With McLaren and Mercedes both claiming wins in recent races, a close scrap on the fast and challenging street track is in prospect, with Ferrari's reserve driver Oliver Bearman replacing Kevin Magnussen alongside Nico Hulkenberg at Haas. Dane Magnussen has been banned after accumulating 12 penalty points. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Azerbaijan Grand Prix: Max Verstappen, Red Bull seek to bounce back in Baku

In a rare warning to its key ally, Iran has advised Russia&nbsp;against siding with Azerbaijan over a border dispute between the two countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Sayeed Abbas Araghchi took to X to rebuke Russia after it backed Azerbaijan’s campaign for drawing a land corridor along the Armenia-Iran border.

“Regional peace, security and stability is not merely a preference, but a pillar of our national security. Any threat from north, south, east, or west to territorial integrity of our neighbours or redrawing of boundaries is totally unacceptable and a red line for Iran,” Araghchi wrote on the social media platform.

The statement shows that Iran’s new reformist government is willing to go down the untrodden path of standing up to Russia, a key economic and strategic ally.

<h2>Russia-Iran tensions</h2>

Concerns have long been raised in Tehran over deepening security ties with Moscow. Critics often highlight the diplomatic price that Iran&nbsp;has to pay for backing Russia militarily and reportedly providing it with drones that have been used on the battlefield against Ukraine.

Iran earlier this week had summoned a&nbsp;Russian envoy and expressed its displeasure, saying it was not impressed with Moscow encouraging a dispute on its borders.

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Mohsen Rezaei, the former overall commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and the secretary of the Expediency Council, also condemned Russia’s “unacceptable” stance.

“The behaviour of Russian statesman was not acceptable and in clear contradiction with their declaration of friendship with Iran, These ambiguities should be resolved,” he was quoted as saying by the Guardian.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Azerbaijani plan?</h2>

Iran is sensitive to Azerbaijani and Turkish plans to establish the “Zangezur corridor”, a transportation concept that is being gradually implemented to secure Azerbaijan's access to the Nakhchivan exclave by skipping Armenia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjBpMSezK6IAxVHyDgGHcyOHhsQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-special-investigative-agency-concludes-ebrahim-raisi-helicopter-crash-caused-by-complicated-weather-755107" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-special-investigative-agency-concludes-ebrahim-raisi-helicopter-crash-caused-by-complicated-weather-755107&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjBpMSezK6IAxVHyDgGHcyOHhsQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Iran: Special investigative agency concludes Ebrahim Raisi helicopter crash caused by 'complicated' weather</a>

Once materialised, the Zangezur corridor will cut off Iran’s direct land access to Armenia. Meanwhile, Ankara is also supporting it as it would act as a geopolitical link between Turkey and Azerbaijan as well as Central Asia.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a rare warning to its key ally, Iran has advised Russia against siding with Azerbaijan over a border dispute between the two countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Sayeed Abbas Araghchi took to X to rebuke Russia after it backed Azerbaijan’s campaign for drawing a land corridor along the Armenia-Iran border.

In a rare warning to its key ally, Iran has advised Russia against siding with Azerbaijan over a border dispute between the two countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Sayeed Abbas Araghchi took to X to rebuke Russia after it backed Azerbaijan’s campaign for drawing a land corridor along the Armenia-Iran border. “Regional peace, security and stability is not merely a preference, but a pillar of our national security. Any threat from north, south, east, or west to territorial integrity of our neighbours or redrawing of boundaries is totally unacceptable and a red line for Iran,” Araghchi wrote on the social media platform. The statement shows that Iran’s new reformist government is willing to go down the untrodden path of standing up to Russia, a key economic and strategic ally. Russia-Iran tensions Concerns have long been raised in Tehran over deepening security ties with Moscow. Critics often highlight the diplomatic price that Iran has to pay for backing Russia militarily and reportedly providing it with drones that have been used on the battlefield against Ukraine. Iran earlier this week had summoned a Russian envoy and expressed its displeasure, saying it was not impressed with Moscow encouraging a dispute on its borders. Also read: Iranian mine, where screaming `Saltmen mummies` were found, was being used since much earlier Mohsen Rezaei, the former overall commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and the secretary of the Expediency Council, also condemned Russia’s “unacceptable” stance. “The behaviour of Russian statesman was not acceptable and in clear contradiction with their declaration of friendship with Iran, These ambiguities should be resolved,” he was quoted as saying by the Guardian. What is the Azerbaijani plan? Iran is sensitive to Azerbaijani and Turkish plans to establish the “Zangezur corridor”, a transportation concept that is being gradually implemented to secure Azerbaijan's access to the Nakhchivan exclave by skipping Armenia. Also read: Iran: Special investigative agency concludes Ebrahim Raisi helicopter crash caused by 'complicated' weather Once materialised, the Zangezur corridor will cut off Iran’s direct land access to Armenia. Meanwhile, Ankara is also supporting it as it would act as a geopolitical link between Turkey and Azerbaijan as well as Central Asia. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran-Russia tensions: Tehran rebukes Kremlin for supporting Azerbaijan’s Zangezur corridor

The voting process for Azerbaijan's snap parliamentary elections has officially ended, and the counting of votes is now underway. Watch in for more details!

Voting concludes in Azerbaijan's parliamentary elections, counting underway

Polls opened on Sunday (September 1) in Azerbaijan for a snap parliamentary election, the first since it regained full control of a former breakaway territory in a lightning offensive last year.

Azerbaijan holds a parliamentary election, 990 candidates in fray

Russia shut down a military base in Azerbaijan. Nearly 2,000 of its troops had been deployed in the military base in Karabakh. This move came after Azeri forces recaptured the area last year.

Russian troops leave Karabakh, now back under Azerbaijan's control

The Caucasus arch-foes, Armenia and Azerbaijan, have been locked in bloody conflict ever since the break up of the Soviet Union more than three decades ago. They have fought two wars, in the 1990s and in 2020, over the mountainous territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, which Baku recaptured in a lightning offensive last September. Peace has remained elusive though and fears of a renewed conflict is always lurking around the corner. After Armenian foreign ministry announced, on the 19th of April, agreements between Yerevan and Baku on border delimitation, residents of several villages in Armenia have been protesting the transfer of four abandoned border villages to Azerbaijan. Mohammed Saleh brings you the details.

Protests in Armenia following border delimitation

In their first meeting since Azerbaijan regained control of Nagorno-Karabakh, the foreign ministers of Armenia and Azerbaijan convened in Iran on Monday. Russia stated that the primary issue had been settled, subject to additional work on a peace treaty. The summit was held against the backdrop of escalating Middle East tensions, following Azerbaijan's swift advance into the disputed territory.

Russia withdrawing from Azerbaijan's Nagorno-Karabakh, announces total withdrawal of troops

Russia begins withdrawing from Nagorno-Karabakh even though Moscow has a military base in Armenia

In his third media interview since being named president-elect of the COP29 summit, Mukhtar Babayev has told the US news website Newsweek that he expects the US to maintain its climate commitments no matter who wins the US Presidential election.

"We hope that all the countries, including the United States, will demonstrate their readiness to fulfill their obligations, to fulfill their readiness to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels," he said.

COP29 is scheduled to happen one week after the US Presidential election in November. Former president Donald Trump's campaign's energy policy's premise is increasing domestic fossil fuel production which doesn't exactly line up with keeping climate commitments. Trump plans to repeal the Inflation Reduction Act which provides $500 billion in investment for the infrastructure necessary for the transition to a green economy if re-elected.

When questioned about persuading an incoming President Trump to uphold emission reduction pledges, Babayev said "I think it is [a] very critical time for the world. We hope that all countries will fulfill their obligations and intentions to provide [for that] 1.5 [Celsius, 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit] limit. That's why I think, and I hope, that all the countries will demonstrate their readiness and—by action—their activities to provide this target."

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Critics may dispute Azerbaijan's status as a major fossil fuel producer hosting a climate meeting. However, Babayev highlighted the country's commitment to switching to renewables. Despite depending primarily on oil and gas exports, Azerbaijan aims to get 30% of its energy from renewables by 2027.

"For Azerbaijan, it is [a] very good opportunity to demonstrate to the world how the oil and gas country in the past can turn to the green growth direction. One of the aspects of our program [is] to invite oil and gas producing countries to see how we will use all the chances to reduce the emission, to find the investment potential for the green growth," he added.&nbsp;

Babayev has more modest expectations for the results of COP29 than COP's previous chapters. Instead of going after historic agreements, he wants countries to honor their previous commitments, such as those made in the Paris Agreement.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

In his third media interview since being named president-elect of the COP29 summit, Mukhtar Babayev has told the US news website Newsweek that he expects the US to maintain its climate commitments no matter who wins the US Presidential election.

In his third media interview since being named president-elect of the COP29 summit, Mukhtar Babayev has told the US news website Newsweek that he expects the US to maintain its climate commitments no matter who wins the US Presidential election. "We hope that all the countries, including the United States, will demonstrate their readiness to fulfill their obligations, to fulfill their readiness to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels," he said. COP29 is scheduled to happen one week after the US Presidential election in November. Former president Donald Trump's campaign's energy policy's premise is increasing domestic fossil fuel production which doesn't exactly line up with keeping climate commitments. Trump plans to repeal the Inflation Reduction Act which provides $500 billion in investment for the infrastructure necessary for the transition to a green economy if re-elected. When questioned about persuading an incoming President Trump to uphold emission reduction pledges, Babayev said "I think it is [a] very critical time for the world. We hope that all countries will fulfill their obligations and intentions to provide [for that] 1.5 [Celsius, 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit] limit. That's why I think, and I hope, that all the countries will demonstrate their readiness and—by action—their activities to provide this target." Also read: Joe Biden speaks to Xi Jinping on phone, talks about global crises, AI, and climate issues Critics may dispute Azerbaijan's status as a major fossil fuel producer hosting a climate meeting. However, Babayev highlighted the country's commitment to switching to renewables. Despite depending primarily on oil and gas exports, Azerbaijan aims to get 30% of its energy from renewables by 2027. "For Azerbaijan, it is [a] very good opportunity to demonstrate to the world how the oil and gas country in the past can turn to the green growth direction. One of the aspects of our program [is] to invite oil and gas producing countries to see how we will use all the chances to reduce the emission, to find the investment potential for the green growth," he added. Babayev has more modest expectations for the results of COP29 than COP's previous chapters. Instead of going after historic agreements, he wants countries to honor their previous commitments, such as those made in the Paris Agreement. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump presidency or not, COP29 leader demands US uphold climate commitments

NATO Chief Jen Stoltenberg visited the Armenian capital of Yerevan on Tuesday. Speaking to residents of the village of Voskepar in Tavush region Nikol Pashinyan warned Armenia's refusal to delineate the Border could trigger a new confrontation. Watch to know more!

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg visits Armenia, calls for peace with Azerbaijan

Armenia could face a war with Azerbaijan if it does not compromise with Baku and return four Azerbaijani villages it has held since the early 1990s, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said in a video published on Tuesday.

Pashinyan was speaking during a meeting on Monday with residents of border areas in northern Armenia's Tavush region, close to a string of deserted Azerbaijani villages that Yerevan has controlled since the early 1990s.

The four villages, which have been uninhabited for over 30 years, are of strategic value to Armenia as they straddle the main road between Yerevan and the Georgian border.

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Azerbaijan has said the return of its lands, which also include several tiny enclaves entirely surrounded by Armenian territory, is a necessary precondition for a peace deal to end three decades of conflict over the region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which Baku's forces retook last September.

Russia's TASS state news agency quoted Pashinyan as telling residents in the video clip that was circulated by his government that failure to compromise over the disputed villages could lead to war with Azerbaijan "by the end of the week".

"I know how such a war would end," he added.

Yerevan suffered a major defeat last September when Baku's forces retook Nagorno-Karabakh in a lightning offensive, prompting almost all of that region's estimated 100,000 ethnic Armenians to flee to Armenia.

Though Karabakh is recognised internationally as Azerbaijani territory, the region's ethnic Armenians had enjoyed de facto independence from Baku since the war of the early 1990s.

<h2>PEACE TREATY</h2>

Baku and Yerevan have said they now want to sign a formal peace treaty, but talks have become bogged down in issues including demarcation of their 1,000 km (620 mile) shared border, which remains closed and heavily militarised.

Pashinyan has signalled in recent weeks that he is willing to return Azerbaijani land controlled by Armenia, and suggested rerouting Armenia's road network to avoid Azerbaijani territory.

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Mainly Muslim Azerbaijan also continues to control areas internationally recognised as part of Christian Armenia.

Azeri President Ilham Aliyev said on Sunday his country was "closer than ever" to a peace with Armenia, in remarks made after holding talks with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Baku.

Stoltenberg held talks on Tuesday with Pashinyan in Armenia, which is nominally a Russian ally though its relations with Moscow have deteriorated in recent months over what Yerevan says is Russia's failure to protect it from Azerbaijan.

As a result, Armenia has pivoted its foreign policy towards the West, to Moscow's chagrin, with senior officials suggesting it might one day apply for European Union membership.

In a statement posted on Tuesday on the Telegram messaging app, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova suggested Yerevan's deepening ties with the West were the reason for Armenia having to make concessions to Azerbaijan.

Armenia could face a war with Azerbaijan if it does not compromise with Baku and return four Azerbaijani villages it has held since the early 1990s, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said in a video published on Tuesday.

Armenia could face a war with Azerbaijan if it does not compromise with Baku and return four Azerbaijani villages it has held since the early 1990s, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said in a video published on Tuesday. Pashinyan was speaking during a meeting on Monday with residents of border areas in northern Armenia's Tavush region, close to a string of deserted Azerbaijani villages that Yerevan has controlled since the early 1990s. The four villages, which have been uninhabited for over 30 years, are of strategic value to Armenia as they straddle the main road between Yerevan and the Georgian border. Also Read | North Korean leader oversees firing drills of ‘super-large’ rocket launchers to potentially target Seoul Azerbaijan has said the return of its lands, which also include several tiny enclaves entirely surrounded by Armenian territory, is a necessary precondition for a peace deal to end three decades of conflict over the region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which Baku's forces retook last September. Russia's TASS state news agency quoted Pashinyan as telling residents in the video clip that was circulated by his government that failure to compromise over the disputed villages could lead to war with Azerbaijan "by the end of the week". "I know how such a war would end," he added. Yerevan suffered a major defeat last September when Baku's forces retook Nagorno-Karabakh in a lightning offensive, prompting almost all of that region's estimated 100,000 ethnic Armenians to flee to Armenia. Though Karabakh is recognised internationally as Azerbaijani territory, the region's ethnic Armenians had enjoyed de facto independence from Baku since the war of the early 1990s. PEACE TREATY Baku and Yerevan have said they now want to sign a formal peace treaty, but talks have become bogged down in issues including demarcation of their 1,000 km (620 mile) shared border, which remains closed and heavily militarised. Pashinyan has signalled in recent weeks that he is willing to return Azerbaijani land controlled by Armenia, and suggested rerouting Armenia's road network to avoid Azerbaijani territory. Also Read | New York Mayor Eric Adams accused of sexual assault by former employee who sought career help Mainly Muslim Azerbaijan also continues to control areas internationally recognised as part of Christian Armenia. Azeri President Ilham Aliyev said on Sunday his country was "closer than ever" to a peace with Armenia, in remarks made after holding talks with NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg in Baku. Stoltenberg held talks on Tuesday with Pashinyan in Armenia, which is nominally a Russian ally though its relations with Moscow have deteriorated in recent months over what Yerevan says is Russia's failure to protect it from Azerbaijan. As a result, Armenia has pivoted its foreign policy towards the West, to Moscow's chagrin, with senior officials suggesting it might one day apply for European Union membership. In a statement posted on Tuesday on the Telegram messaging app, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova suggested Yerevan's deepening ties with the West were the reason for Armenia having to make concessions to Azerbaijan.

Armenia’s PM says he must return disputed areas to Azerbaijan or face war

Azerbaijan appears to have started demolishing a building in Stepanakert that housed Nagorno-Karabakh’s parliament for almost two decades.

Azerbaijan demolishes key Karabakh building

Former Karabakh Armenian Parliament building destroyed

Azerbaijan demolishes key building of Karabakh Armenians

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