Threatened island nation to host pre-climate meet talks
One of the countries most vulnerable to sea level rise will host leaders as part of their mission to the Pacific’s international climate conference.
The main consultations for the pre-COP31 event will take place in Fiji in October, and a “leaders’ component” will be held in Tuvalu, a low-lying island state expected to lose 90 percent of its land to the ocean by the end of the century.
While Turkey emerged victorious in a three-year battle with Australia and Pacific nations to host the annual summit, rival bidders haggled over some COP-related responsibilities.
Australia is currently leading multilateral negotiations and drafting text, while the Pacific has provided a lead event ahead of the COP.
Solomon Islands prime minister Jeremiah Manele, chairman of the Pacific Islands Forum, said the region would have a strong presence at the climate conference.
“The pre-COP is a chance to show that when it comes to climate change, the most vulnerable nations can lead and the world’s most powerful nations can listen,” he said.
Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen, who has been tasked with leading the negotiations, said the Pacific region was at the forefront of the climate crisis.
“Jointly leading the COP31 negotiations with the Pacific will strengthen our ties with our closest neighbours,” he said.
Also as part of COP31 arrangements, Palau will host a “special climate event” during the 55th PIF leaders’ meeting in September.
The main goal of the annual United Nations climate summit is to make progress towards the Paris Agreement, the global agreement that aims to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
While the latest summit in Brazil failed to deliver meaningful progress on roadmaps to end deforestation and phase out fossil fuels, climate experts hope Australia can use its negotiating role to advance key agenda items.
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