Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva speaks at the opening of the Leaders’ Summit at COP31 in Antalya, Turkey, on Nov. 11, 2026. (Foto: Instagram)
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva called on countries to keep disagreements from blocking climate action as he spoke at the opening of the Leaders’ Summit at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP31, in Antalya, Turkey, on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026. He also warned of what he described as attacks on science and multilateralism and criticized imbalances in global mechanisms.
Speaking with some difficulty because of a problem with his voice, Lula argued that the absence of consensus should not stand in the way of progress. He urged countries to address their differences through diplomacy.
“In other forums, veto privileges and the power of money tilt the balance,” Lula said. “Undermining the climate regime means destroying what is best about the multilateral system. Lack of consensus must not become an obstacle to progress. In times of polarization, diplomacy must find ways forward when doors close.”
The speech was Lula’s first address at an international forum since his re-election on Oct. 25, 2026. On Tuesday, his first day of engagements in Antalya, he held closed-door meetings focused on preparations for the summit before meeting Turkish President Recep Erdogan. The two discussed opportunities to expand trade, potential partnerships and a possible visit by Erdogan to Brazil.
