Mixed start for pre-Cop as just two non-Pacific leaders accept Australian invitation to climate summit
Anthony Albanese joins about 4,000 people in Fiji for preparatory meeting for year-ending Cop31 UN climate summitSign up for climate and environment editor Adam Morton’s free Clear Air newsletter hereThe Australian prime minister, Anthony Albanese, has declared it is “important t
The attendance of just two non-Pacific leaders at Australia's climate summit in Fiji is a mixed start to the pre-Cop preparations. The fact that only two leaders outside of the Pacific region accepted the invitation raises questions about the level of engagement and commitment from key countries ahead of Cop31. This is particularly notable given Australia's role as a significant emitter and its influence in the region.
The summit, which brings together around 4,000 people, provides an opportunity for discussions and negotiations to take place before the main event in November. With the global stocktake and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) on the agenda, the level of participation and ambition from countries will be crucial in setting the tone for Cop31. Australia's own climate policies and actions will likely be under scrutiny, particularly in light of its recent announcements and targets.
What's next to watch is how the outcomes from this summit feed into the broader Cop31 discussions, and whether countries will increase their ambition and action on climate change. The level of participation and engagement from major emitters and developed countries will be critical in determining the success of Cop31. As the climate crisis continues to escalate, all eyes will be on the progress made in the lead-up to the summit and the commitments that countries make to address this pressing global issue.
Originally reported by theguardian.com. ClimateNews adds analysis for climate & energy readers.