Fiji says preparations for hosting the Pre-COP31 Meeting are progressing well, with government agencies working alongside international partners to finalise arrangements for the key climate gathering.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade said it is working closely with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the COP31 Presidency and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Secretariat to complete the programme, agenda and logistical preparations.
Invitations and the Administrative Note will be issued through UNFCCC National Focal Points by the end of this week.
The Ministry said decisions on the level of representation at the meeting rest with individual governments and should not overshadow the purpose of the gathering.
“With respect to attendance, it is entirely a matter for individual governments to determine the level of their representation. Every country has its own national priorities and scheduling considerations, and we respect those sovereign decisions,” the Ministry said.
“Our focus is therefore not on speculation regarding attendance, but on ensuring that Fiji provides an excellent platform for constructive and meaningful dialogue.”
The Ministry stressed that the success of the Pre-COP31 Meeting should be judged by its ability to advance climate negotiations rather than the number of leaders attending.
“The success of the Pre-COP31 Meeting should not be measured solely by the number of Heads of Government or Heads of State in attendance. Rather, it should be measured by whether it helps build consensus, narrows differences in negotiating positions, and advances substantive progress towards successful outcomes at COP31.”
The meeting is expected to focus on key issues including climate finance, adaptation, loss and damage, and other priorities of particular importance to Pacific Small Island Developing States, while supporting broader international cooperation on climate action.
The Ministry said it is working hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change to ensure both the diplomatic and substantive aspects of the meeting are delivered to the highest standard.
Preparations also involve close coordination with the UNFCCC Secretariat, the COP31 Presidency, development partners, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to ensure an inclusive and productive Pre-COP process.
The Ministry said Fiji has a long-standing record of international climate leadership and looks forward to welcoming delegates from around the world as it contributes to advancing negotiations ahead of COP31.
