King Charles will not be in attendance at the upcoming COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan next month due to his ongoing cancer treatment, marking a significant change in his schedule. The 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference had hoped to have the King, known for his environmental advocacy, join global leaders in Baku for the event. Despite missing COP29, Charles is preparing for a trip to Australia with Queen Camilla as part of their autumn tour, where they will engage in various engagements.
At a previous climate summit, COP28 in Dubai, King Charles delivered a passionate speech highlighting the world’s need for urgent action to meet essential climate goals. Although the UK government did not request his presence at COP29, sources close to the royal family revealed that Charles is also conscious of his commitments following the upcoming tour. Since his cancer diagnosis earlier this year, Charles has been undergoing weekly treatments, spending time in Scotland to aid in his recovery by immersing himself in nature.
Royal insiders disclosed that medical professionals have given the King permission to pause his treatment temporarily during the autumn tour. Following their visit to Australia, the royal couple is scheduled to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa. With a busy itinerary and health considerations in mind, palace staff and government officials deemed it unreasonable for the King to attend COP29 from November 11 to 22.
As Charles approaches his 76th birthday in November, plans for public celebrations have been set aside, with the King expected to observe the day privately at home. This decision marks the second time in three years that Charles will miss the climate summit, following advice against his attendance at the 2022 event in Egypt by then-Prime Minister Liz Truss. While the King will not be present at COP29, his dedication to environmental causes remains unwavering.
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, established in 1992, aims to prevent harmful impacts on the climate system. Charles had recently hosted the president-designate of COP29 at his residence, showcasing his ongoing commitment to environmental issues. Despite his absence at COP29, the King’s advocacy for climate action continues to resonate globally, as the world strives towards a sustainable future.