President Christodoulides attends COP31 climate summit in Turkey

President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, travels to Antalya, Turkey, on November 10, 2026, to participate in the UN COP31 climate change conference. The summit for world leaders is scheduled for November 11 and 12, as part of the broader conference held from November 9 to 20, which focuses on implementing the Paris Agreement, energy transition, and climate resilience.

Cyprus’s participation was secured following intensive diplomatic efforts by Nicosia, supported by European Union institutions and member states. Initially, the Turkish President had sent personal invitations to the other 26 EU leaders, omitting President Christodoulides. The eventual inclusion of the Republic of Cyprus was achieved after the EU exerted pressure, asserting that a member state's participation in international processes cannot be restricted.

Government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis confirmed there is no scheduled meeting between President Christodoulides and the Turkish leadership during his stay in Antalya. Meanwhile, reports indicate that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has requested a telephone conversation with the Cypriot President to discuss the recent meetings with Maria Angela Holguin and potential trilateral consultations regarding the Cyprus issue. Following the summit, President Christodoulides will travel to Dublin for European Union sessions.