More than 50 countries have gathered in Santa Marta for the world’s first international talks focused specifically on phasing out fossil fuels, against the backdrop of the ongoing Iran war and a tightening global energy supply.
The two-day conference brings together ministers and climate envoys aiming to revive momentum toward reducing dependence on fossil fuels—the main driver of global warming.
Hosted in one of Colombia’s key coal-exporting hubs, the meeting highlights both the urgency and complexity of transitioning away from fossil-based energy systems.
Speaking ahead of the talks, UK Special Climate Envoy Rachel Kyte noted that countries appear more willing to engage constructively.
“There is a sense of urgency and willingness to tackle a complex challenge made more immediate by the current crisis,” she said.
The conference has drawn a diverse group from major producers such as Canada, Norway, and Australia to developing oil economies like Nigeria, Angola, and Brazil.
