UN/Simon Stiell: Progress in COP31 talks, tactical delays must be avoided

Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations (UN) Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), stated that progress was made in the COP31 negotiations in Antalya and called on the parties to quickly address the most challenging issues and avoid tactical delays as the conference enters its second week.

Speaking at the press conference within the scope of the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change held in Antalya, Stiell said that many world leaders reaffirmed their commitment to climate action and the accelerating UN climate process.

"Countries are increasingly focusing on climate change to protect their people and respond to the financial burden and chaos in the energy market caused by global warming. It is also clear that countries are taking climate action to strengthen their economies, knowing that renewable energy sources are the main driver of growth, employment and safe, affordable energy, and that adaptation is at the center of competitiveness," Stiell said.

Electrification and access to finance featured in negotiations

Stating that electrification and access to finance were among the prominent topics in the negotiations, Stiell made the following assessment of the process.

"Negotiations are in full swing. The parties are actively participating and progress is being made. Nearly 200 countries are working on 165 jurisdictions. Every country has an opinion, every country has a voice. Agreeing on every word, every sentence is difficult, but it is a vital task. A common success cannot be achieved without the agreement of all parties. As we enter the second week, we encourage the parties to quickly address the most difficult issues and avoid tactical delays. Work is also gaining momentum beyond the negotiating halls. "The action agenda combines what countries agree on with what is being implemented in the real economy."

Stiell calls for wider participation in climate fight

Stating that the climate crisis cannot be solved in a short time, Stiell said, "No COP meeting can magically eliminate this crisis. However, each of them should encourage progress. If we, as the climate community, can better involve billions of people in this struggle, only then can we win this global climate struggle. To achieve this, we need to meet people at the point they are in their daily lives."