Antigua and Barbuda Joins Pacific Climate Talks Ahead of COP31

Antigua and Barbuda is taking part in high-level climate discussions in Fiji and Tuvalu this week, as small island nations seek to strengthen their influence ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP31.

Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, Michael Joseph, is representing the country at the Pacific Pre-COP31 meetings from October 5–8. He is accompanied by Ambassador Ruleta Camacho-Thomas, Acting Director of the Department of Environment.

Hosted by Australia in partnership with Fiji, Tuvalu and other Pacific partners, the meetings are intended to bring Pacific perspectives and priorities to the forefront of preparations for COP31.

The programme includes discussions in Nadi, Fiji, and a Leaders’ Event in Tuvalu and Fiji on October 5–6. The leaders’ gathering offers participants an opportunity to observe the effects of climate change in Tuvalu, including sea-level rise, and learn about measures being taken by Pacific communities to adapt and build resilience.

For Antigua and Barbuda, the discussions provide an opportunity to advance concerns shared by Small Island Developing States, including access to climate finance, adaptation, loss and damage, and the implementation of international climate commitments.

As a fellow small island state, Antigua and Barbuda faces many of the same vulnerabilities as Pacific nations and continues to advocate for stronger international action and greater access to resources to address climate impacts.

Joseph and Camacho-Thomas are expected to engage with ministers, government representatives and other climate stakeholders throughout the programme, contributing Antigua and Barbuda’s perspective to discussions ahead of the global conference.

COP31 is scheduled to take place in Antalya, Türkiye, from November 9–20, 2026.