D-8 nations adopt Istanbul Declaration ahead of COP31, launch climate cooperation plans for 2026-2030 -

Fazli Haq
ISLAMABAD: Environment ministers and senior representatives from all nine member states of the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation met in Istanbul and unanimously adopted the Istanbul Declaration, setting out a framework for climate cooperation ahead of COP31, scheduled to take place in Antalya from November 9 to 20.
D-8 nations adopt Istanbul Declaration ahead of COP31, launch climate cooperation plans for 2026-2030
The meeting also agreed to begin work on a D-8 Adaptation Action Framework for 2026-2030 and expand collaboration on climate resilience, finance, technology transfer and sustainable development, said a press release received here.
The first-ever D-8 Ministerial Meeting on Environment was held in Istanbul, Türkiye, under the theme, “Preparing for COP31: Advancing Climate Implementation through International Cooperation.” The meeting marked the first ministerial-level platform in the history of the D-8 dedicated solely to environmental and climate issues.
The session was chaired by Türkiye’s Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, Murat Kurum, who was also the President-designate of COP31. The minister highlighted the role that D-8 countries could play in global climate efforts, citing their combined population, geographic reach and economic capacity.
Kurum outlined the priorities and action agenda of the upcoming COP31 presidency and stressed the importance of cooperation among D-8 countries in promoting practical climate measures and strengthening the representation of developing nations in international climate discussions.
D-8 Secretary-General Ambassador, Sohail Mahmood said climate change has become one of the key development challenges facing member states. He welcomed the focus of the COP31 presidency on implementation and emphasized the need for progress in adaptation, climate finance, loss and damage, and a transition toward sustainable economic growth.
He said economic development, environmental protection and climate resilience should move forward together through technology sharing, knowledge exchange, financing mechanisms and stronger cooperation among developing countries.
The Secretary General also proposed enhanced consultations among D-8 members before COP31 through a coordination mechanism. He suggested establishing a joint D-8 presence at the conference in Antalya, including a shared pavilion and side events to present the organization’s priorities, projects and climate solutions.
During the meeting, ministers and representatives reaffirmed their commitment to climate action while presenting national perspectives based on their development priorities and local circumstances.
Participants noted the growing contribution of D-8 countries to international climate discussions, following Egypt’s hosting of COP27, Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29 and Türkiye’s upcoming hosting of COP31.
The meeting concluded with the unanimous adoption of the Istanbul Declaration. The document expresses support for Türkiye as host and president of COP31 and called for moving the global climate agenda from commitments to implementation through practical action, accessible climate finance, technology transfer and international cooperation.
The declaration also endorsed work on a D-8 Adaptation Action Framework covering the period 2026-2030 and welcomed the proposed D-8 Environment and Climate Cooperation Platform.
Member states agreed to develop a roadmap for long-term cooperation in areas including adaptation, climate finance, loss and damage, clean energy, resilient cities, environmental education, circular economy, zero waste and sustainable growth.
The declaration further highlighted the “Istanbul Initiative for Climate Action and Sustainable Development,” aimed at promoting climate resilience, green investment, technology cooperation and implementation-focused partnerships across the D-8 region.
D-8 nations adopt Istanbul Declaration ahead of COP31, launch climate cooperation plans for 2026-2030
Officials also recognized the role of small and medium-sized enterprises, the private sector, academic institutions and young people in supporting innovation and sustainable economic development.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood held talks with Minister Murat Kurum on preparations for COP31, implementation of the meeting’s outcomes and future cooperation on environmental governance, climate resilience and sustainable urban development across D-8 member states.