Santa Marta, Colombia: More than 50 countries are gathering in Colombia this week for discussions focused on transitioning away from fossil fuels, in one of the major international efforts aimed at addressing climate change outside the formal United Nations negotiation process. The summit is being co-hosted by Colombia and the Netherlands and is taking place from April 24 to 29 in Santa Marta.
The meeting brings together governments and other participants to explore pathways for reducing dependence on coal, oil, and gas. Organizers say the aim is to strengthen cooperation on energy transition strategies, including national roadmaps and proposals for managing a “just transition” that balances climate goals with economic and social needs.
The United States is not participating in the summit, according to reports, alongside some other major fossil-fuel-producing countries. However, the event is open to countries and stakeholders that support discussions on accelerating the global shift away from fossil fuels.
Attendance figures vary slightly depending on how participants are counted, with reports indicating involvement from around 50 countries, while broader estimates including additional stakeholders suggest participation could exceed 60 nations.
The talks are not expected to result in a binding international agreement, but rather to build political momentum and share policy approaches outside the slower consensus-based United Nations climate framework.
The conference is taking place amid ongoing global energy and geopolitical tensions, including concerns over energy prices and supply security, which continue to complicate efforts by many countries to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
