Siena:Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Minister Christos Senekis has urged for Cyprus' full participation in COP31, scheduled for next month in Antalya. During the EU Environment Council meeting in Luxembourg, he expressed gratitude to his counterparts and the Climate Commissioner for their backing. He highlighted the need for solidarity among member states and stressed the importance of Cyprus having equal access to the conference.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Senekis emphasized the necessity of an ambitious EU environmental policy that considers each member state's unique characteristics and competitiveness. The Council approved conclusions on preparations for the COP31 climate conference, where Senekis advocated for a unified European approach with clear priorities, focusing on the implementation of the Paris Agreement and maintaining the issue of climate change as a high priority on the EU's agenda.
Ministers also discussed the European Commission's proposals to revise the Emissions Trading System (ETS) for the post-2030 period. Senekis reiterated Cyprus' support for the green transition while underlining the importance of safeguarding European economic competitiveness. He placed special emphasis on shipping, a crucial sector for Cyprus.
The Council additionally approved conclusions related to the EU's stance ahead of the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity in Yerevan (COP17). Senekis pointed out the specific challenges faced by Cyprus, including climate change, water scarcity, and land degradation.
Ireland's Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh O'Brien, noted the importance of a well-functioning ETS for European competitiveness. He expressed optimism for reaching a balanced compromise at the next meeting in December. Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra highlighted substantial support for the ETS review and underscored the focus on clean electrification at COP31.
On the sidelines of the Council, Senekis held discussions with Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall and Wopke Hoekstra.