President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has departed for Antalya, Türkiye, to participate in the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP31).
The conference is being held from 9 to 20 November 2026, bringing together world leaders, government representatives, climate negotiators and other stakeholders to discuss international efforts to address climate change.
During the summit, President Muizzu is expected to deliver the Maldives’ National Statement, take part in high-level discussions and events, and hold bilateral meetings with fellow world leaders.
COP31 provides an important international platform for countries to review progress on climate commitments, strengthen cooperation and advance practical measures to tackle the climate crisis. Discussions are expected to cover key issues including climate finance, the transition to clean energy, environmental protection and support for countries particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
The annual conference is the 31st session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC, a landmark international treaty adopted in 1992. The Convention provides the foundation for global climate negotiations and serves as the parent agreement to the 2015 Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global temperature rise and strengthen countries’ efforts to adapt to climate impacts.
This year’s conference is hosted by Türkiye, while Australia is leading the formal negotiations under an arrangement between the two countries. The summit also brings together business leaders, young people, climate scientists, Indigenous Peoples and civil society representatives to share expertise and promote inclusive climate solutions.
The Maldives, as a small island developing state particularly exposed to rising sea levels and other climate-related threats, has consistently called for stronger international climate action and greater support for vulnerable countries.
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed and a high-level Maldivian delegation are accompanying President Muizzu on the visit.
