All 47 Fijian delegates attending the UN climate conference in Belém, Brazil, are safe, following a fire at a COP30 venue that disrupted the meeting.
Permanent secretary for Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael, confirmed the delegation was able to exit the building before the situation intensified.
According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), emergency teams acted quickly to contain the blaze.
“The fire department and UN security officers responded swiftly, and the fire was controlled in approximately six minutes. People were evacuated safely,” the UNFCCC said.
Thirteen individuals were treated on-site for smoke inhalation, with authorities monitoring their condition and providing medical support as needed.
As a precaution, Brazilian authorities and the UNFCCC decided to temporarily close the conference’s Blue Zone while fire officials conduct a full safety assessment.
COP30 organisers are now working to finalise a plan for the resumption of negotiations once the venue is declared safe by fire and health authorities.
Officials indicated that some meetings with groups whose consultations were disrupted may resume later last night, pending safety clearance. However, no plenary activities are expected.
“We will ensure that activity in the plenary tomorrow is open to all Parties and Observers, and is also live-streamed.
“We express our appreciation for the cooperation of participants as safety remains the top priority.
“We still have much work ahead, and we hope all parties will join in that work in a spirit of solidarity and determination to deliver a successful COP outcome.”
