Palau is making a strong push to host a pivotal preparatory meeting before the next United Nations climate conference. President Surangel Whipps Jr. is actively seeking support throughout Micronesia as the nation aims to amplify Pacific priorities within the global dialogue on climate change.
The proposed Pre-Conference of the Parties (Pre-COP) is intended to take place in Palau just prior to COP31, aligning with the 2026 Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting, which the country will also host. This strategic timing is designed to allow Pacific leaders and their international partners to coordinate their positions and create a more unified regional voice ahead of formal climate negotiations.
Palau’s endeavor is bolstered by its current leadership role within the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), providing the country with a vital platform to influence the negotiating agenda for nations most vulnerable to climate change. Hosting the Pre-COP in Palau would facilitate high-level participation, as it shortens travel distances and encourages attendance from ministers and senior officials already in the region for the PIF Leaders Meeting. This co-location of events aims not only at enhancing logistical efficiency but also at lowering carbon emissions by minimizing the need for multiple intercontinental trips, which aligns with broader climate objectives.
Additionally, holding this important meeting in a small island developing state is anticipated to resonate deeply, highlighting the pressing challenges that low-lying Pacific nations face due to climate change. The initiative also serves to strengthen regional leadership on ocean and climate issues. With Palau hosting a regional Oceans Commissioner office, the gathering presents a chance for Pacific leaders to coordinate on ocean protection strategies, particularly amidst growing concerns over deep-sea mining. There is a growing recognition of the ocean’s critical role as a significant carbon sink, and its importance to the economies, cultures, and climate resilience of the region is increasingly emphasized.
By scheduling the Pre-COP closely after the PIF Leaders Meeting, Palau aims to ensure that heads of government and key decision-makers remain in the country, enhancing the quality and impact of the regional positions that will be brought to global negotiations.
In the past month, President Whipps has traveled throughout Micronesia to garner support for this proposal, engaging with leaders and ministers in the Federated States of Micronesia and Nauru. This outreach signifies Palau’s commitment to secure widespread backing from other Pacific nations, fostering a united front to present to international partners.
Should this proposal succeed, hosting the Pre-COP would represent a significant milestone for climate diplomacy in the North Pacific, further establishing Palau as an influential hub for regional climate advocacy.
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