Arry Simon and Garth Simon Represent Antigua and Barbuda at Pre-COP31 Climate Talks in Türkiye

Arry Simon and Garth Simon of Antigua and Barbuda’s Department of Environment are representing the country in preparatory climate discussions in Antalya, Türkiye, ahead of the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31).

The two officials are already on the ground, participating in pre-COP31 engagements with international climate stakeholders as countries prepare to negotiate key issues surrounding climate action, financing and global environmental commitments.

Their participation forms part of Antigua and Barbuda’s preparations for the international conference, scheduled to take place from November 9 to 20, 2026.

The preliminary sessions provide an opportunity for representatives to exchange views, identify negotiating priorities and build consensus on matters expected to feature prominently during the formal conference.

Simon and Simon are among the first members of Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation to participate in the engagements, ahead of the arrival of other senior government officials.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne will lead the country’s wider delegation and is expected to participate in the World Leaders Summit, which will bring together heads of government and other international leaders to address pressing climate challenges.

Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs Michael Joseph is also expected to participate during a later phase of the conference.

Joseph has been appointed by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to lead the region’s engagement on science and serve as one of three ministerial leads on climate finance, alongside ministers from Barbados and Belize.

His responsibilities will include contributing to regional coordination and negotiations on the scientific evidence guiding climate policies and the financial support needed by vulnerable developing countries.

Other members of Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation include Climate Ambassador and Director of the Department of Environment Ruleta Camacho-Thomas and Gita Nicholas, also of the Department of Environment.

The participation of Arry Simon and Garth Simon in the preparatory sessions marks an early stage of Antigua and Barbuda’s engagement at COP31, as the country continues to advocate for stronger international cooperation on climate resilience, adaptation and financing.

The conference will bring together governments and international stakeholders to advance global climate commitments and address the increasing challenges associated with climate change.