Recently re-elected leader will attend high-level segment in Antalya and hand over COP presidency as global talks focus on implementation.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will attend the United Nations COP31 climate summit in Antalya, Türkiye, the Brazilian presidency confirmed, joining dozens of world leaders for the high-level segment of the annual climate negotiations.
Lula is scheduled to arrive in Antalya on 10 November for the leaders’ summit on 11-12 November. The full COP31 conference runs from 9 to 20 November. After the climate meetings, he is due to travel to the Philippines for the ASEAN summit.
Brazilian President Lula to Attend COP31 Climate Summit in Türkiye:
The confirmation came shortly after Lula’s re-election to a fourth term. Brazil hosted COP30 in Belém in the Amazon in 2025 and will formally hand over the COP presidency to Türkiye, which will oversee the conference in a shared arrangement with Australia, the country coordinating the formal diplomatic negotiations.
So far, 77 heads of state and government have confirmed their participation. In addition to Brazil, United Kingdom Prime Minister Andy Burnham is among those expected to attend.
Lula has positioned Brazil as a prominent voice on climate issues, particularly the protection of the Amazon and the need for greater climate finance and energy transition support for developing countries. During its presidency of COP30, Brazil advanced initiatives on deforestation and clean energy, and it is expected to present related roadmaps and defend that legacy at the Antalya gathering.
COP31 Focuses on Climate Action Amid Global Tensions:
Türkiye, as host and COP31 president, has emphasised implementation of existing commitments rather than new pledges. Its agenda includes raising electricity’s share of global energy consumption and other practical targets aimed at turning climate goals into concrete action. Australia is leading the formal negotiating track under the dual arrangement agreed after competing bids to host.
The summit takes place against a backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions and pressure on energy markets. Negotiators and observers note that reaching ambitious new agreements on phasing out fossil fuels remains challenging, even as countries face mounting climate impacts.
Lula’s attendance underscores Brazil’s continued engagement in multilateral climate diplomacy following its hosting year. The Brazilian delegation is also expected to highlight adaptation investments and efforts to counter climate denialism on the global stage. Further details on bilateral meetings and specific Brazilian proposals are expected as the leaders’ segment approaches.