COP31 climate summit opens in Antalya under shadow of regional energy stress

Nearly 200 nations have convened in Antalya, Turkey, for the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), scheduled from 9 to 20 November. Discussions focus on accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels as ongoing Middle East conflicts strain global energy markets. Joint host nations Australia and Turkey, alongside Germany, are advocating for a new global target to increase electricity's share of final energy consumption to 35% by 2035.

Political participation at the summit faces setbacks. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz skipped the event to navigate domestic fiscal hurdles after parliamentary backing for a €210 billion borrowing plan. Meanwhile, climate activist Greta Thunberg delivered a sharp critique of the proceedings on Thursday, accusing global figures of failing affected communities and stating that "nobody is coming to save us."

Sources: Adevărul, Digi24, Economedia, HotNews, Ziarul de Gardă