Prime Minister Hon. James Marape will join world leaders, ministers, and heads of international organisations in Belém, Brazil, for the Belém Climate Summit on 6–7 November 2025, a landmark gathering ahead of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) scheduled for 10–21 November.
The high-level meeting, convened by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, will focus on tackling the global climate crisis through fair and sustainable energy transitions, forest and biodiversity conservation, and strengthening the implementation of the Paris Agreement.
Prime Minister Marape said Papua New Guinea’s participation underscores its leadership role as a big forest and ocean state, committed to protecting its vast tropical forests, marine ecosystems, and the livelihoods of its people.
“Papua New Guinea stands with Brazil and other tropical forest nations in advancing climate justice and sustainable development,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Our forests and oceans are the lungs of the planet. As custodians of 8% of the world’s biodiversity and one of the largest rainforests after the Amazon and Congo, we come to Belém to share our experience and to push for fairer climate financing that recognises the true value of nature.”
The Belém Summit, to be held at Parque da Cidade (City Park)—one of the COP30 legacy venues—will feature plenary sessions for heads of state and thematic discussions on:
• Climate and Nature: Forests and Oceans
• Energy Transition
• Ten Years of the Paris Agreement: NDCs and Financing
The Summit will also launch major international initiatives, including:
• The Tropical Forests Forever Fund (TFFF), bringing together tropical forest nations and investors to drive long-term conservation finance;
• The Belém Commitment on Sustainable Fuels;
• The Call to Action on Integrated Fire Management; and
• The Declaration on Hunger, Poverty, and Climate Action.
Prime Minister Marape said the Summit is especially significant for Papua New Guinea as the world prepares for COP30, the first COP ever held in a rainforest region.
“This is a powerful moment for the Global South,” he said.
“From the Amazon to the Pacific, our countries bear the brunt of climate impacts. Yet we are also the solution — through our forests, our oceans, and our renewable energy potential. Papua New Guinea’s message in Belém will be clear: we must turn pledges into action and ensure that climate finance reaches the communities who protect the planet’s natural capital.”
Prime Minister Marape will also participate in the Tropical Forests Forever Fund reception, engaging with partner nations and investors to promote practical pathways for sustainable development and forest protection.