Ankara is preparing to host three significant international summits in 2026, solidifying its position as a key player in global diplomacy. These include the NATO Summit, the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), and the Summit of the Organization of Turkic States.
The NATO Summit is scheduled to take place in Ankara in July 2026. This comes at a time when Turkey is actively involved within the alliance and in addressing various regional and international issues, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Founded in 1949 with 12 member states to counter Soviet expansion, NATO now comprises 32 nations. Turkey joined in 1952 and boasts the second-largest military force within the alliance, after the United States, with approximately 440,000 active personnel.
Furthermore, Turkey is slated to host COP31, with the main events planned for Istanbul and Antalya. Final details regarding dates and logistical arrangements will be announced later. The agreement to host COP31 in 2026 concludes a period of uncertainty surrounding the location of the UN climate talks. Ankara and Australia had both vied for the opportunity since 2022.
COP, or Conference of the Parties, is the annual climate summit convened by the United Nations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. This international treaty, established in 1992 and enacted in 1994, involves 196 countries, including Turkey, which joined in 2004. These nations convene annually to negotiate strategies for mitigating global warming, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting communities affected by climate change.
In addition to world leaders, the conference draws participants from various sectors, including government officials, scientists, activists, and representatives from civil society and the private sector. The summits provide a platform for discussions, negotiations, and the presentation of innovative solutions to address climate change. Hosting these major events underscores Turkey’s growing influence on the international stage.
These three summits present a unique opportunity for Turkey to showcase its diplomatic capabilities and contribute to addressing critical global challenges.
