Fire Disrupts COP30 Climate Summit

Talks as Negotiators Race Against Deadline

TDT | Manama

Email : ashen@newsofbahrain.com

Climate negotiations at the COP30 summit were abruptly halted on Thursday after a fire broke out inside the main venue, forcing thousands of delegates to evacuate just as discussions were intensifying over a potential global climate deal.

The incident occurred less than 24 hours before the summit’s scheduled conclusion, further complicating efforts to secure an agreement among nearly 200 participating nations. Host country Brazil has emphasized that a strong outcome from COP30 is essential to accelerating global climate action and turning years of pledges into concrete progress.

Earlier in the day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged negotiators to demonstrate flexibility and work toward a compromise, welcoming growing calls for clarity on the contentious issue of phasing out fossil fuels. However, a draft compromise circulated by Brazil on Thursday did not include a roadmap for transitioning away from fossil fuels — a key point of debate.

Security footage showed flames erupting at an exhibition pavilion shortly after midday, spreading quickly along the fabric lining the walls and ceiling before being extinguished. Organizers said 13 people were treated for smoke inhalation. Local firefighters attributed the blaze to electrical equipment — likely a microwave — and confirmed it was brought under control within six minutes.

Despite the rapid response, security personnel evacuated the venue, forming a human cordon to guide delegates to safety. Negotiations are not expected to resume until Friday morning, though consultations between the presidency and negotiating blocs may continue pending safety assessments.

The fire added to mounting pressure on negotiators, who had already missed a self-imposed Wednesday deadline to finalize agreements on climate finance and fossil fuel reduction. Emissions from fossil fuels remain the largest driver of global warming, making the discussions especially urgent.