Ghana advances climate priorities in high-level meeting with COP31 negotiations president

Ghana has intensified its diplomatic efforts at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, following a high-level bilateral meeting between the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability, Seidu Issifu, and the President of Negotiations for COP31, Chris Bowen.

The meeting, held on November 9, 2026, formed part of Ghana’s strategic engagements with key international stakeholders to advance its national climate priorities and push for meaningful outcomes from the ongoing global climate negotiations.

During the engagement, Seidu Issifu outlined Ghana’s expectations for COP31, emphasising the need for stronger international cooperation, equitable access to climate finance and practical measures to help developing countries address the growing impacts of climate change.

He stressed that global climate commitments must translate into tangible action, particularly for vulnerable communities facing the effects of extreme weather events, environmental degradation and other climate-related challenges.

The minister also highlighted the importance of strengthening global efforts in climate adaptation and mitigation, alongside technology transfer and capacity-building.

He noted that developing countries require adequate financial and technical support to implement their climate commitments while pursuing sustainable economic growth and improving the livelihoods of their populations.

The discussions further focused on the need for an inclusive and transparent negotiating process that takes into account the different national circumstances and development priorities of countries.

For Ghana, ensuring that Africa’s priorities and the concerns of climate-vulnerable nations receive adequate attention in the negotiations remains critical to achieving a fair and balanced global climate agreement.

The engagement also provided an opportunity for both sides to deepen dialogue, strengthen diplomatic relations and explore areas of common interest in advancing the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

Ghana’s participation in COP31 reflects its continued commitment to playing an active role in shaping international climate policy.

Through engagements with the COP31 leadership and other international partners, the country is seeking to ensure that its priorities, particularly those relating to climate finance, resilience, adaptation and sustainable development, are adequately reflected in the conference outcomes.

The Office of the Minister of State for Climate Change and Sustainability continues to lead Ghana’s climate diplomacy efforts, working with government institutions, development partners and international stakeholders to promote effective climate action and strengthen the country's position in global climate discussions.

As negotiations progress, Ghana has reiterated its commitment to constructive engagement and international collaboration to secure ambitious, inclusive and practical outcomes that address the realities of developing and climate-vulnerable countries.

The meeting between Seidu Issifu and Chris Bowen therefore represents another step in Ghana’s efforts to strengthen its voice in global climate negotiations and push for outcomes that support a more resilient and sustainable future.