Simon Stiell has said that COP31 must demonstrate the resilience of multilateral climate cooperation amid growing geopolitical tensions, energy shocks, and global uncertainty.
Speaking during the closing session of the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial on Wednesday, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change executive secretary described 2026 as “another crucial year in a crucial decade for climate action.”
COP31 is scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye, in November, with Türkiye serving as the physical host while Australia will preside over the negotiations.
Stiell warned that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has triggered what he described as a “fossil fuel cost crisis,” further highlighting the urgent need to accelerate the global transition to clean energy.
Following the upcoming UN climate meetings in Bonn, Germany, he urged countries to arrive at COP31 prepared to deliver meaningful progress.
“Despite global turmoil, climate multilateralism remains strong,” Stiell said, emphasizing that the UN climate process must help nations “accelerate implementation and unlock ambition.”
He stressed that the coming years will be decisive for keeping the goals of the Paris Agreement within reach and called for “concrete outcomes” in key areas including grid investment, electrification, methane reduction, resilient cities, and food security.
The UNFCCC chief also highlighted the importance of the organization’s 2026–2030 Action Agenda, describing it as a “vital role” in helping mobilize the previously discussed 1.3 trillion US dollars in climate finance for developing countries.
Addressing climate finance and political negotiations, Stiell said the international community is closely monitoring the COP30 Presidency Roadmaps and the role of Australia in advancing major negotiated outcomes, including the Just Transition agenda and improving access to climate finance.
“We also need the most ambitious among you taking the lead — coming together to make progress further and faster than consensus allows,” he said.
His remarks come as global leaders and climate negotiators intensify discussions on implementation, financing, and cooperation ahead of COP31.
