World Leaders Gather in Belém Brazil for COP30 Leaders Summit

World leaders convened in Belém, Brazil, for the Leaders’ Summit, a high-level meeting preceding the 30th Session of the United Nations Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, scheduled from 10 to 21 November 2025. Held on 6–7 November, the Summit brought together Indigenous leaders, government officials, civil society representatives, international organizations, NGOs, and local citizens to advance global climate action. The gathering provided a platform to set priorities, share experiences, and reinforce commitments to sustainable development.

The Kingdom of Lesotho was represented by The Honourable Deputy Prime Minister, Justice Nthomeng Majara, who delivered Lesotho’s National Statement on 6 November. In her address, she reaffirmed Lesotho’s dedication to climate action, resilience, and sustainable development. She outlined the country’s national priorities and pledged continued engagement in international efforts to address climate change, highlighting Lesotho’s commitment to reducing emissions and promoting sustainable resource management.

Key speakers set the tone for COP30 by reflecting on progress and challenges in climate action. President of COP21, His Excellency Laurent Fabius, emphasised the ongoing relevance of the Paris Agreement, noting that the focus must shift toward implementation, inclusion, and practical solutions. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for a decisive transition to clean energy, stressing that renewable energy offers the means to transform economies and protect populations. His Royal Highness Prince William of the United Kingdom urged global cooperation to “Save Our Planet Together,” commending Indigenous peoples of the Amazon for their stewardship of nature and stressing that global climate targets cannot be achieved without safeguarding their lands and rights.

The Host of COP30, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, highlighted the symbolic return of the Conference to the Amazon. He described the region as a biodiversity hotspot, home to thousands of plant and animal species, and a sacred land for Indigenous communities. President Lula da Silva noted that while many may struggle to interpret climate science, Indigenous peoples understand climate change through lived experience. This perspective underpins the theme of COP30: “a pact for the life of forests, oceans, and humanity,” emphasizing protection of ecosystems, respect for traditional knowledge, and equitable climate justice.

The Leaders’ Summit concluded on 7 November with a session reviewing Ten Years of the Paris Agreement, focusing on Nationally Determined Contributions and climate financing. The discussions underscored the need for enhanced international collaboration, financial support for vulnerable nations, and accelerated implementation of climate commitments. Lesotho’s participation highlighted the country’s active role in global climate policy and its commitment to sustainable development, aligning national strategies with international climate goals.