Opening Ceremony

Water is a necessary part of the climate solution: without considering freshwater in mitigation and adaptation, the Paris Agreement will likely be out of reach. As such, the Water for Climate Pavilion aims to highlight the vital importance of water in the fight against climate change. It serves as a platform to share knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions related to water and climate. At COP31, over 35 events will be hosted at the pavilion, in support of thematic days and negotiation priorities, with engagement across Parties, constituents and non-party stakeholders. Through engagement at COP31 and throughout the year, the Water for Climate secretariat aims to create a dynamic space for conference participants both within and outside of the water community, alongside Party delegations and UNFCCC bodies.

Programme:

Welcome Statements

• Opening and Moderator: Ms. Susanne Halling Duffy, Director, Stockholm International Water Institute
• Mr. Mattias Frumerie, Climate Ambassador and Head of Delegation, Sweden

Keynote:

• H.E. Rob Jetten, Prime Minister of the Netherlands (tbc)

Special Inaugural Statements – Linking the Global Water Agenda with the Global Climate Agenda

• H.E. Abdulla Balalaa, Assistant Minister for Energy and Sustainability Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, United Arab Emirates
• H.E. Sanoi Boyzoda, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tajikistan
• H.E. Retno Marsudi, UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Water

Water for Climate and Multi-Stakeholder Voices

Closing Statements

• Ms. Ingrid-Gabriela Hoven, Managing Director of GIZ