Türkiye consults NGOs on COP31 preparations, vows to champion climate justice

2026-02-26 - 21:42

Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum chaired a key consultation meeting with non-governmental organizations in Ankara Thursday as part of Türkiye's preparations to host and preside over the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference in November. The event focused on planning for COP31, with Kurum announcing that the COP31 Presidency Office has been established, the Antalya EXPO venue designated as the primary site, and on-site work already underway. Türkiye's Bridging Role and Vision Kurum emphasized that Türkiye views COP31 as more than a diplomatic gathering—it represents a watershed moment for accelerating implementation, rebuilding global trust, and delivering concrete outcomes through strengthened Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement. "Türkiye will act as the voice of countries seeking development through climate justice, just transition, and humane diplomacy approaches," he stated, adding that Ankara will invite developed countries to take responsibility on green economy, equity, and loss and damage funding. The minister stressed that combating climate change does not restrict economic growth but promotes inclusive prosperity and sustainable progress globally. Unique Partnership with Australia Türkiye will host COP31 under an unprecedented partnership arrangement with Australia, formalized at COP30 in Belém last November. Türkiye holds the formal presidency, managing hosting logistics, the World Leaders Summit, and overall operations, while Australia serves as president of negotiations with exclusive authority over the negotiation process. Kurum has already held preparatory meetings with Australian negotiators, Brazil as previous host, Azerbaijan, and UNFCCC Executive Secretary Simon Stiell. Nearly 200 countries are expected to convene in Antalya to discuss emission reduction targets, adaptation measures, climate finance, and carbon market rules, with the leaders' summit taking place in Istanbul.