European commission opposes potential exclusion of Cyprus from COP31

The European Commission has officially stated that any exclusion of the Republic of Cyprus from the upcoming 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) or its preparatory processes would be unacceptable. This position was articulated by EU High Representative and Vice-President Kaja Kallas in response to a parliamentary question submitted by MEP Geadis Geadis, who raised concerns regarding the actions of the Turkish presidency of the event.

In her formal reply dated August 21, 2026, Kallas emphasized that the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) process must remain inclusive, transparent, and open to all member states. The EU has relayed this message to Turkey, the UN Secretariat, and Australia, which is overseeing the COP31 negotiations. The Commission maintains that all parties to the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement must be invited to all international meetings and events hosted by the Turkish presidency, asserting that their rights must be fully respected.