Colombo, 01 September 2026 — H.E. Matthew Duckworth, High Commissioner of Australia to Sri Lanka, paid a courtesy call on Mr. K.R. Uduwawala, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, on 01 September 2026.

Discussions focused on preparations for COP31, with particular attention to Australia’s role as the incoming COP Presidency of Negotiations and its plans to strengthen engagement with Pacific Island countries. The High Commissioner highlighted Australia’s intention to organize a Pre-COP engagement with Pacific Island countries, with the aim of ensuring strong representation of Indian Ocean and Pacific perspectives at COP31.

The Sri Lankan side highlighted the country’s key priorities for COP31, including climate change adaptation, enhanced climate finance, addressing loss and damage, and ensuring a just transition. The importance of effective implementation of COP31 outcomes, including financing and accountability mechanisms, was also discussed.

The two sides also discussed Sri Lanka’s participation in upcoming COP-related preparatory meetings, while further coordination on the proposed Pre-COP and related arrangements will be undertaken through the appropriate diplomatic channels.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of Sri Lanka and Australia to continued cooperation on climate action and to strengthening collaboration in the lead-up to COP31.