Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani arrived in Antalya, Turkey, on November 10, 2026, to participate in the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The conference, taking place from November 9 to 20, brings together world leaders to address pressing climate issues. El Ghazouani was accompanied by a large delegation, including his advisors and ministers.
The COP31 conference is being held at the Expo Center in Antalya, with the leaders' summit scheduled for November 11 and 12. According to the Turkish presidency, 91 heads of state and government are expected to attend. The summit will focus on key issues such as reducing emissions, financing for vulnerable countries, and adaptation mechanisms. These topics are of particular importance to Mauritania, which faces significant environmental challenges.
Mauritania is seeking to secure climate financing and enhance its adaptation programs, given its vulnerability to desertification, declining vegetation cover, and irregular rainfall patterns. The country's environment minister, Mariem Fadel Dah, arrived in Antalya earlier to lead the Mauritanian delegation in preparatory discussions. El Ghazouani's participation aims to strengthen international cooperation and secure support for Mauritania's environmental initiatives.
The conference will feature speeches by participating leaders, followed by technical negotiations until the conference concludes on November 20. Turkey is hosting the conference, while Australia is leading the negotiations based on an agreement reached during the previous session. The outcomes of COP31 are expected to have significant implications for global climate action and cooperation.
For Mauritania, the conference offers an opportunity to highlight its environmental challenges and advocate for increased international support. The country's delegation will engage with global leaders to discuss strategies for addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development. This participation aligns with Mauritania's efforts to enhance its environmental governance and resilience.
El Ghazouani's attendance at COP31 demonstrates Mauritania's commitment to addressing climate change and its impacts. The conference provides a platform for the country to share its experiences and priorities with the international community. By engaging with global leaders, Mauritania aims to secure increased financing and technical assistance to support its climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
The COP31 conference is a critical event in the global climate agenda, bringing together world leaders to address pressing environmental challenges. Mauritania's participation, led by President El Ghazouani, underscores the country's determination to address climate change and promote sustainable development. The conference's outcomes will be closely watched by the international community, with implications for global climate cooperation and action.
Key points
- Mauritania's President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani attends COP31 to discuss climate finance and adaptation.
