Turkiye's Hosting and Presidency Authority of COP31

Turkiye became the host country of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) in 2026. With this critical decision, Turkiye has taken its place on the most important stage of climate diplomacy. However, the summit leadership was shared with a collaborative model between Turkiye and Australia, outside traditional practices.

Hosting and Negotiation Leadership Agreement

The organizational and logistical responsibility of COP31 will belong to Turkiye. According to statements from the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, the Leaders' Summit of COP31 will be held in Istanbul, while the main conference part will take place in Antalya.

A unique model will be applied in the management of the summit:

• Turkiye: As the COP31 President, it will be particularly responsible for the summit's Climate Action Agenda and overall declaration work.

• Australia: Will take on the role of Head of Negotiations. The Australian delegation will carry out key responsibilities such as managing technical negotiation processes, facilitating appointments, and preparing Agreement texts throughout the summit.

This shared co-chairing approach stands out as a solution that combines Turkiye's geographical and organizational capacity with Australia’s negotiation experience and diplomatic focus on the Pacific region.

Turkiye's Strategic Position in Climate Diplomacy

Hosting COP31 presents Turkiye with an opportunity to elevate its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets to the international platform and demonstrate its commitment to achieving the 2053 Net Zero Emissions goal.

Through its presidency, Turkiye aims to act as a global bridge in the fight against the climate crisis. By bringing the voices of developing countries and regions most affected by climate change to the negotiation table, Turkiye will work towards achieving fair and inclusive outcomes on vital issues such as climate finance and loss and damage mechanisms.

This summit is seen as a strategic turning point that will strengthen Turkiye's reputation on the international stage and increase national momentum in green transition and adaptation projects.