COP31 opens late in Turkey as rich and poor nations clash on climate finance

The COP31 climate conference opened Monday in Antalya, Turkey, nearly 90 minutes late due to financial disagreements between wealthy and developing nations, with the UN urging action on global warming. Negotiations are stalled over funding commitments from developed countries, historically responsible for most emissions, to help vulnerable states cope with climate impacts. Greenpeace criticized the difficult start, noting European opposition to some financial agenda items. Turkey and Australia share an unprecedented co-presidency, with Ankara pushing for electrification targets that may face resistance from fossil fuel producers. The US is absent, adding pressure on the duo to bridge divides.