António Guterres calls for preparatory UN climate negotiations to be held online

(Climate Home News, 8 Feb 2021) Critical negotiations to prepare for November’s Cop26 climate summit will need to take place virtually as the coronavirus pandemic is still not allowing in-person meetings and further delay is not an option, according to UN chief António Guterres.

This would be the first time UN climate negotiations were held online — a move long resisted by a majority of developing countries, which have repeatedly cited concerns around connectivity and inclusiveness.

“Because of Covid-19, it is unlikely that the usual schedule of meetings will happen in person. Preparatory negotiations for Cop26 will need to take place virtually,” Guterres told a briefing of member states by UK Cop26 president designate Alok Sharma on Monday.

“We simply cannot allow the pandemic to keep us from working together on the crucial pathway to Glasgow,” he said.

Climate negotiators have been taken by surprise by Guterres’ comments, with several sources telling Climate Home News they were not aware of his position.

A final decision on how to host preparatory negotiations is expected to be taken by the UN Climate Change bureau, which is comprised of UN Climate Change head Patricia Espinosa and a number of top diplomats that ensure geographical representation. The next bureau meeting is planned for the end of the month.

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Climate Home News, 8 Feb 2021: António Guterres calls for preparatory UN climate negotiations to be held online

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