Belem: At the ongoing 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30), leaders and experts have emphasized the need for stronger South-South cooperation to advance global climate governance. Simon Stiell, the executive secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), highlighted the importance of international cooperation, comparing the COP process to the Amazon River, which is strengthened by numerous tributaries.

According to Namibia Press Agency, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, speaking at the World Leaders Climate Action Summit, urged all parties to make COP30 a turning point by creating a clear roadmap to mobilize 1.3 trillion U.S. dollars annually for developing countries by 2035. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called for concrete actions rather than rhetoric, suggesting a governance mechanism within the UN framework to ensure commitments are met, potentially including sanctions for non-compliance.

The absence of high-level U.S. officials at the summit has drawn criticism. Colombian President Gustavo Petro remarked on the responsibility of the United States as a major historical emitter, noting its absence at a critical juncture. Samuel Spellmann, a political economist, criticized the U.S. stance as an avoidance of responsibility and a hindrance to global climate progress.

Fernando Romero Wimer, from Brazil's Federal University for Latin American Integration, noted that the lack of action by developed countries has motivated the Global South to pursue its own energy transition and climate finance solutions. South-South cooperation is expected to be a focal point at COP30, with Brazil inviting countries to join efforts in Amazon rainforest protection. Lula also pointed to the potential for renewable energy collaboration in Latin America and Africa to generate jobs and economic growth while combating climate change.

Highlighting Brazil-China cooperation, Lula praised China's advancements in green transition through technological innovation. As of September 30, less than one-third of Paris Agreement parties had updated their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for 2035. However, China has submitted its 2035 NDCs, covering all greenhouse gases across its economy.

China's role in global climate action, particularly through South-South cooperation, is expected to be a significant topic at COP30. By October 2025, China aims to have signed 55 memoranda of understanding on climate cooperation with 43 developing countries. Additionally, China will host "China Pavilion" side events during COP30, focusing on carbon markets, carbon neutrality, and low-carbon technology.

Leila da Costa Ferreira of the University of Campinas emphasized the importance of solidarity among developing countries. She highlighted China's role in innovation-driven development and its contribution to the global green transition.