Cop31 must deliver climate progress that people can see is real, host says

High-stakes climate talks involving 190 countries begin on Monday as the world deals with the record-breaking El Niño supercharged by fossil fuels. Cop31 summit must produce tangible, real results, says host. Countries grapple with the strongest El Niño in history, which threatens hundreds of thousands of lives and trillions in damage.

Rich and poor nations face friction over climate crisis payments and slow emission cuts. Temperatures have surpassed 1.5C above preindustrial levels. Chair of Least Developed Countries, Adão Soares Barbosa, says keeping 1.5C requires survival-focused measures, not political choices. Dual-host talks in Antalya, Turkey, with Australia presiding, seek tangible progress on implementation and finance.

Australia wants ambitious outcome for Pacific low-lying nations facing existential threats. US delegation absent for second year, citing disagreement with 'extremist' climate policies. Developing nations and civil society push for climate finance and justice. Record deaths from heatwaves, wildfires, glacial collapse in Europe, North America, and Nepal.

Iran war has pushed countries towards renewables, which are falling in price. Turkey wants more countries to adopt electric technologies, aiming for 35% electricity share by 2035. Both presidency nations are major fossil fuel exporters. Australia targets net zero emissions by 2050 but falls short. Left-leaning UK energy secretary warns climate change is already impacting all economies.