COP31 in Antalya to focus on implementation and access to finance, Australian negotiator says

The upcoming COP31 conference in Antalya should become a conference of practical implementation and ensure concrete measures to expand access to finance, David Higgins, Chair of COP31 Negotiations from Australia, stated at the opening ceremony of Climate Week-4 of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (CW4) in Baku, Report informs.

According to him, the upcoming climate conference provides a crucial opportunity to improve access to financing, especially for Small Island Developing States and Least Developed Countries.

"COP31 will be a conference of implementation," Higgins emphasized.

He noted that Australia and Türkiye have worked closely throughout the year and formed a strong and effective partnership based on trust, cooperation, and friendship.

Higgins highlighted that COP31 will take place against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, energy instability, and global uncertainty.

"As Chair of COP31 Negotiations, we will adhere to the principles of transparency, inclusiveness, and cooperation. We will listen to you [Azerbaijan and Brazil], take your experience into account, and seek solutions together to deliver practical results," he added.

COP31 will take place on November 9-20, 2026, in Antalya. Türkiye will serve as the host country responsible for organizing the summit, while Australia will lead the negotiation process during the conference.