Brazil Holds Firm on Belem as COP30 Venue Amid Accommodation Crisis

Brazil remains steadfast in its decision to host the upcoming COP30 climate summit in Belem this November, resisting calls for a venue change as accommodation costs escalate. 'The COP will be in Belem, the leaders' summit will be in Belem,' stated Andre Correa do Lago, COP30 president, dismissing any notion of alternate plans.

Concern over Belem's skyrocketing hotel prices has overshadowed climate policy discussions ahead of the U.N. summit. Developing countries have expressed difficulty affording the accommodation, spurring intense discussions at the UNFCCC emergency meeting. Despite recommendations to shift parts of the event to less expensive locations, Brazil has declined, reaffirming its commitment to an inclusive, comprehensive conference.

Hosting challenges extend beyond accommodation, with questions arising about logistical capabilities such as proximity of delegations to conference events and airport capacity. However, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva remains resolute, with significant infrastructure investments made in Belem, underscoring his goal to showcase the Amazon rainforest globally.

(With inputs from agencies.)