Christodoulides confirms attendance at Cop31 in Turkey despite recognition dispute

Antalya, Turkey. President Nikos Christodoulides confirmed on Tuesday that he would attend next month’s Cop31 climate summit in the Turkish Mediterranean coastal city, although Turkey does not recognise his status as a head of state.

Invitation follows diplomatic efforts

Christodoulides said the Republic of Cyprus consistently participates in these summits. He expressed satisfaction with the outcome, attributing it to a decisive contribution from partners and diplomatic and political work undertaken outside public view.

He emphasised that those efforts had proceeded without publicity or fanfare and said the invitation carried messages concerning the Cyprus problem.

Asked about the possibility of unwelcome surprises at the summit, Christodoulides said preparations covered every eventuality and that such developments could not be ruled out. He added that the Republic of Cyprus would also respond, noting its membership of the European Union, which comprises 27 states.

Turkey and Australia share hosting roles

Turkey will co-host Cop31 with Australia. Turkish Environment Minister Murat Kurum has been named chairman, while Australian Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen will lead negotiations involving political leaders in Antalya.

A host cannot exclude a United Nations member state from negotiations by acting unilaterally. However, additional events and agreements are expected during the summit’s 12 days in November.

Earlier dispute over briefing access

Earlier this year, Politico cited diplomats who said Turkey had left Cyprus off the invitation list for a Cop31 briefing held in New York. According to those diplomats, Turkey subsequently objected when Cypriots sought to join the briefing with the EU delegation.

Sources said Ankara had no obligation to invite an entity that it did not recognise.

At the time, Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reported that Turkish officials had dismissed the criticism, arguing that Ankara was not obliged to invite an entity it did not recognise diplomatically.