President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has held a series of meetings with international leaders and senior officials on the sidelines of the 31st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP31), currently taking place in Antalya, Türkiye.
The four-day summit, running from 11 to 14 November, brings together heads of state, government representatives and other international stakeholders to discuss pressing climate challenges and strengthen global cooperation.
During his official visit to Türkiye, President Muizzu attended the summit’s opening ceremony and participated in several high-level sessions. He also delivered the Maldives’ national statement, highlighting the urgent need to address major obstacles to tackling climate change and the growing risks faced by vulnerable countries.
On the sidelines of the conference, the President met with Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda, World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who was accompanied by his wife, Dr Zubaida Rahman.
President Muizzu also held discussions with Ruslan Edelgeriyev, Aide to the President of the Russian Federation and Special Presidential Representative for Climate and Water Resources.
The meetings provided an opportunity to engage with international leaders on matters of mutual interest and explore ways to strengthen cooperation on climate-related priorities.
COP31 is the 31st annual climate conference held under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, an international treaty adopted in 1992. The conference serves as a major platform for countries to negotiate climate commitments, assess progress and coordinate efforts to address global warming and its impacts.
The summit brings together representatives of UNFCCC member states, alongside business leaders, youth advocates, climate scientists and civil society organizations. Through high-level discussions, negotiations and the exchange of research and practical experience, participants are working towards sustainable solutions to climate challenges and stronger international collaboration.
