Antalya:Australian Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen has called for a spirit of compromise at the COP31 UN Climate Change Conference, emphasizing the urgent need to address the global threat of climate change. Speaking to world leaders in Antalya, Bowen highlighted the importance of acting with urgency, solidarity, and resolve in combating climate change.
According to Anadolu Agency – English, Bowen stressed the critical nature of every fraction of a degree increase in global temperatures, citing projections that the world will exceed the 1.5C global warming threshold. He underscored Australia's commitment to international cooperation and the Paris Agreement, asserting the heightened significance of the COP in times of global disruption.
Bowen emphasized Australia's partnership with Türkiye, noting their joint responsibility as custodians of the global climate process. With Türkiye hosting COP31 and Australia presiding over the negotiations, Bowen advocated for diversified energy sources and reduced reliance on vulnerable supply chains to bolster energy security.
The Australian minister outlined the summit's priorities, which include accelerating global electrification, enhancing climate adaptation and resilience, and streamlining climate finance. Together with Turkish Climate Change Minister Murat Kurum, Bowen announced a presidency-led decision-making approach aimed at delivering practical solutions and signaling a commitment to progress rather than retreat.
Bowen concluded by urging governments to demonstrate unwavering commitment to tackling climate change, emphasizing that success at COP31 means advancement across a comprehensive negotiating agenda.