United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for a global climate justice agreement. Speaking on Wednesday at the opening of the COP31 summit in Antalya, he urged governments to implement taxes on fossil fuel companies. According to the UN chief, these financial measures should assist nations that suffer the heaviest impacts of a climate crisis they did little to create.
The appeal from Guterres coincided with the arrival of world leaders in Antalya, where discussions opened against a backdrop of ongoing debates regarding the future of fossil fuels and climate finance. Early arrivals observed a sunrise prior to the start of the proceedings. The opening ceremony featured traditional Turkish dancing, colorful performances, video presentations, and a designated COP31 theme song.
While leaders delivered their addresses, diplomatic negotiators continued to work through persistent, unresolved challenges concerning the conference agenda. The discussions are part of ongoing daily coverage and updates surrounding the COP31 proceedings.
