Erdogan: Unequal climate pace realistic due to financing gaps

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday that it is unrealistic to expect all countries to advance at the same pace on climate policy while inequalities in access to financing and technology persist. Speaking at the United Nations Climate Summit in New York, Erdogan added that climate targets must align with societal and economic realities and development priorities.

Turkey and Australia are preparing to host the COP31 Climate Summit in Antalya from November 9 to 20, with Australia leading formal negotiations and Turkey responsible for the presidency and action agenda. On Monday, Turkey's COP31 president outlined an agenda focused on translating climate commitments into tangible projects and measurable outcomes. Key targets include increasing electricity's share in energy consumption to 35% by 2035 and halving projected increases in municipal waste.

Erdogan emphasized that a just transition requires a strong link between climate goals and development and prosperity. He also noted that pre-COP events in Fiji and Tuvalu are valuable for ensuring the voices of Pacific nations are heard.