COP30: Last-Minute Efforts to Reach Climate Deal in Belem as Nations Deadlock Over Key Issues
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The second week of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belem, Brazil, is set to be a critical phase in negotiations, with several key issues still pending resolution. The COP30 president, André Aranha Corrêa do Lago, announced that a summary of countries' views on accelerating the Paris Agreement will be published on Sunday, which is expected to form the basis of the draft cover decision. Developing countries, led by India, have been pushing for greater financial support from developed nations to aid in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts. They have also expressed concerns over climate-related trade restrictions. Small island nations and developed countries, such as the EU, are prioritizing the implementation of Article 13 of the Paris Agreement, including the reporting and review of biennial transparency reports. To facilitate a meeting point between developed and developing countries, Lago has asked parties to deliberate on three broad themes: celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the Paris Agreement, moving from negotiations to implementation, and responding to the urgency of climate action. Observers note that the summary of countries' views will be crucial in addressing the four outstanding matters under these themes. The summary is expected to be published on the UNFCCC website and will serve as a basis for further discussions. The conference has seen significant progress, with 116 nations updating their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for the 2035 period. However, experts warn that the world is on track to breach the 1.5°C temperature threshold by the early 2030s, and that urgent action is needed. Social and environmental movements from around the world have mobilized thousands of people for marches and demonstrations, demanding action on climate change. The conference has also seen a significant presence of fossil fuel lobbyists, with over 1,600 attendees, a 12% increase from last year's COP29. As the conference enters its final stretch, negotiators face a daunting task in reaching a climate deal. The outcome of COP30 will be crucial in determining the future of global climate action and the ability to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.
