Turkey to Host COP31 in 2026 After Australia Steps Back
Turkey will host the next UN climate change conference, COP31, after Australia withdrew its bid. The event is scheduled for 2026 in the Mediterranean resort city of Antalya. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan also addressed ongoing conflicts in the Middle East during recent statements.
The United Nations Climate Change Secretariat confirmed Antalya as the host city for COP31. Australia, originally set to lead the conference, will now focus on negotiations while Turkey takes on the hosting role. The decision follows Turkey’s growing role in renewable energy, with renewables already making up over 60% of its energy mix in 2023.
The country has set ambitious targets to quadruple its solar and wind capacity by 2035. Erdoğan highlighted these efforts while announcing Turkey’s readiness to host the global climate summit.
In separate remarks, the president addressed the conflict in Gaza. He cited UN data suggesting that destruction in Palestine has set back development by 70 years. Erdoğan reaffirmed Turkey’s support for a lasting ceasefire and pledged assistance in rebuilding the region.
COP31 will take place in Antalya in 2026, marking Turkey’s first time hosting the major climate conference. The country continues to expand its renewable energy sector while engaging in diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. Erdoğan’s statements underscore both environmental and humanitarian priorities in Turkey’s international agenda.
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