08/03/2026
The Prime Minister of Tuvalu, Hon. Feleti Penitala Teo, has welcomed the announcement that Tuvalu will host a special Leaders’ component as part of the Pre-COP31 climate meetings later this year, describing it as a significant moment for the nation and the Pacific region.
The announcement was made by Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Chair and Prime Minister of Solomon Islands, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, confirming that Fiji will host the Pre-COP meeting in October 2026, while Tuvalu will host a dedicated Leaders’ component.
Prime Minister Teo described the opportunity as a defining moment for Tuvalu, “This is a historical event. It presents a significant opportunity for world leaders to come and witness firsthand the vulnerability of Tuvalu to sea level rise and the impacts of climate change. Their presence here strengthens our advocate efforts on the global stage. While we continue to advocate in international forums, welcoming leaders to Tuvalu allows them to see for themselves the realities that our people face every day.”
Pre-COP meetings serve as an important preparatory platform ahead of the annual United Nations Climate Conference (COP), which in 2026 will be hosted by Türkiye in Antalya. The Pre-COP discussions help shape priorities, build consensus, and lay the groundwork for negotiations at the main summit.
In announcing the decision, PIF Chair Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele stated, “Pre-COP is a chance to show that when it comes to climate change, the most vulnerable nations can lead, and the world's most powerful nations can listen.”
Tuvalu, as one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, faces increasing challenges from sea level rise and the impacts of climate change. Hosting the Leaders’ component will bring global attention directly to the realities confronting Tuvalu and other low-lying Pacific island countries.
The Government of Tuvalu is working closely with regional partners and relevant stakeholders to prepare for the event, ensuring that arrangements are in place to successfully host world leaders and effectively showcase Tuvalu’s climate priorities and resilience efforts.
This Leaders’ component presents a historic platform for Tuvalu to continue its strong advocacy on climate action and to reinforce the collective voice of the Blue Pacific on the global stage.