**Press Release: 

Qaiser Nawab Participates in OIC Youth Capital Shusha 2024 Opening Ceremony and Panel Discussion on Leadership in Diplomacy**

*Shusha, Azerbaijan - June 5, 2024* - Qaiser Nawab, renowned Global Climate Youth Leader and President of the Belt and Road Initiative for Sustainable Development (BRISD), along with his 10 member delegation from 7 countries participated in the opening ceremony of the OIC Youth Capital Shusha 2024 in Azerbaijan. Nawab contributed his insights as a panelist in the discussion titled “Role of Leadership in Diplomacy: Shaping International Relations,” which was held today.

Ednews reports that, the panel discussion featured prominent figures including Illaha Ibrahimi from the Nizami Ganjavi International Center (NGIC) and Mr. Rafiq Ismayilov from ICYF-ERC, and was moderated by Leyla Seyidzade, Innovation Consultant at UNDP.

In his speech, Nawab expressed his gratitude to the government of Azerbaijan for their exceptional hospitality and for hosting this timely event. He highlighted the significance of gathering in the breathtaking Shusha mountains on the occasion of World Environment Day 2024, emphasizing the pivotal role of leadership in diplomacy in addressing global challenges.

Nawab underscored the importance of land restoration, stopping desertification, and building drought resilience, pointing out the profound interconnectedness of these issues with climate change, environmental degradation, and resource scarcity. He stressed that these challenges require a unified diplomatic response, where effective leaders bring nations together, foster cooperation, and build consensus.

He commended President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan for his unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability and his leadership in regional and international diplomacy. Nawab noted Azerbaijan's significant strides in land restoration and environmental conservation, and its successful chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement as exemplary of its capability in fostering international cooperation.

Nawab also highlighted the significance of Azerbaijan hosting COP 29, which underscores the nation's dedication to addressing environmental issues on the global stage. He remarked that this upcoming conference will be a pivotal moment for nations to unite and take decisive action against climate change.

Concluding his speech, Nawab reaffirmed the collective commitment to protecting the environment through collaborative efforts and strong diplomatic ties, aiming for a resilient future where the planet and its people thrive.

Akbar