After a prolonged period of uncertainty, a formal agreement has been reached for Turkey to host the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) climate summit in 2026. The announcement, made by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, marks the end of a deadlock surrounding the hosting of the crucial United Nations climate talks.
The agreement was solidified following a meeting of the Western European and Others Group (WEOG), tasked with selecting the host nation for the 2026 summit. A statement released during the COP30 summit in Belem, Brazil, confirmed Turkey’s acceptance of the role, with Australia taking the lead in the negotiation process.
“A formal agreement has been reached for Turkey to host COP31 in Antalya, with Australia taking on the role of leading negotiations in the lead up to and during the meeting,” Albanese stated. This collaborative approach aims to ensure a smooth and effective conference.
According to the official statement, Australia will hold “exclusive authority regarding the negotiations” that will guide the decision-making process at the summit. This underscores Australia’s commitment to driving meaningful progress on climate action.
Furthermore, the statement highlighted the importance of addressing the specific vulnerabilities of the Pacific region. A special meeting will be convened in the Pacific prior to COP31 to “draw attention to the existential threat posed by climate change to the region.” This initiative reflects a commitment to amplifying the voices of those most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Both Australia and Turkey had submitted bids to host COP31 back in 2022. The lack of withdrawal from either party resulted in an impasse at this year’s COP30 meeting. The Pacific Islands Forum, a regional diplomatic bloc comprising 18 nations, had previously voiced its support for Australia’s bid.
DZWatch understands that Turkish Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, Murat Kurum, announced Turkey’s hosting and presidency of COP31 during the general assembly meeting of COP30. This collaborative effort between Turkey and Australia signals a renewed commitment to addressing the global climate crisis. The upcoming summit promises to be a pivotal moment for international climate action.
DZWatch will continue to provide updates on the preparations for COP31 in the coming months.
