Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani said on Wednesday that his country would keep supporting global efforts to tackle climate change, as he joined world leaders at the opening session of the COP31 summit in Antalya, Türkiye.
In a post on X, the emir described the conference as an important milestone for strengthening international cooperation on climate change.
“Qatar will continue its active role in supporting global climate action through its initiatives and contributions to joint efforts to address climate challenges, in a way that promotes sustainable development,” he wrote.
He also shared a photograph of himself with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, taken on the sidelines of the summit.
The Amiri Diwan said the opening session was attended by heads of state and government, official delegations, and representatives of regional and international organisations. Members of the emir’s official delegation were also in the hall.
Türkiye is hosting COP31 in the Mediterranean resort city from November 9 to 20. Leaders, ministers, and negotiators are discussing cuts to emissions, adapting to a warming climate, and the money needed to pay for climate action.
Earlier on Wednesday, Guterres opened the leaders’ segment with a call for a “Climate Justice Compact”, while Erdogan and Guterres welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to the venue. Saudi Arabia and Türkiye also used the summit to sign a 3,000MW wind power deal.
