Brazil is expected to announce on Tuesday that Ambassador Andre Correa do Lago will preside over the 2025 COP30 global climate summit in Belem, as confirmed by three sources knowledgeable about President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's intentions. Correa do Lago has been Brazil's climate negotiator at international summits since 2023 and previously held the same position from 2011 to 2013. A dedicated figure in climate diplomacy and sustainable development since 2001, he is set to take on a crucial role at COP30 as the primary mediator among country delegations at the event in November. The successful appointment of Correa do Lago is seen as vital for the conference as world leaders will convene to address strategies for keeping global warming in check.
The decision to appoint Correa do Lago signifies a return to leadership roles in climate policy for the COP conferences. Unlike past hosts, such as the country in charge last year and the forthcoming host in 2023, which selected officials with ties to state-owned oil companies as summit leaders, Brazil aims to place experienced climate policy specialists in charge of steering negotiations at this significant event.
Selecting the summit's president marks the initial phase for the Brazilian government to designate the leadership team responsible for navigating the challenging negotiations expected at COP30. Difficult discussions are anticipated on crucial issues like financing the transition to sustainable energy in developing nations and the commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, preparations are underway in Belem, located in the Amazon rainforest, to accommodate the large influx of attendees, with requirements to rapidly expand available accommodations in the city.
President Lula, committed to ending deforestation in the Amazon, views the success of the Belem conference as a pivotal opportunity to showcase Brazil's environmental priorities on the global stage. During past climate summits, he advocated for hosting the event in an Amazonian state to highlight the region's significance. Government sources indicated to Reuters that Correa do Lago stands as the frontrunner for the role, given his deep understanding of climate negotiations and extensive network across various sectors within the government. His adept handling of delicate issues, such as mediating disputes between affluent and developing nations at the previous summit, further bolsters his candidacy.