President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil has appointed Ambassador André do Lago, the current Secretary of Climate, Energy, and Environment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as the president for the United Nations Climate Conference COP30, scheduled to hold in Belém in November 2025.
The announcement was made after a meeting with key ministers on Tuesday morning at the Palácio do Planalto.
Ambassador do Lago, a seasoned diplomat, was present at the meeting alongside Environment Minister Marina Silva and Climate Change Secretary Ana Toni.
André do Lago brings decades of diplomatic experience and environmental advocacy to the role, further solidifying Brazil’s readiness to host and lead the pivotal global event.
In his new role as COP30 president, Ambassador do Lago will spearhead diplomatic negotiations and oversee the conference’s agenda.
A major focus will be the review of the Paris Agreement and intensified global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The appointment reflects Brazil’s commitment to advancing climate diplomacy and highlights the strategic importance of COP30.
Ambassador do Lago has already been actively involved in preparatory meetings for the conference, collaborating with top officials like Minister Silva and Secretary Toni to ensure a successful and impactful event.
COP30, which will take place in the Amazonian city of Belém, is expected to draw global leaders, climate advocates, and policymakers as they discuss solutions to the pressing climate crisis.
By Dare Akogun