Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, is in Brazil attending COP30, which continues its focus on turning ambition into implementation by advancing solutions driving systemic change in real places, led by real people.

During his visit, Minister Richmond is taking part in discussions on deforestation, energy efficiency, and scaling up climate finance for the world’s least developed countries and small island developing states. He is also meeting Ireland’s partners, including the World Bank and the Amazon Fund, as well as ministerial counterparts from other nations. Ireland is announcing new financial contributions to support resilience in the most climate-vulnerable countries.

Minister Richmond said: “COP30 is an opportunity for the world to come together to address a common threat we all face. Ten years on from Paris, we need more urgency and more action. Climate change impacts Ireland through floods, storms, and changing weather patterns, but its effect is even more severe in countries where people are less able to respond. Ireland is committed to supporting those most at risk. Our climate finance has more than doubled since 2020, and we are now investing at least €225 million annually.”

Today’s COP30 agenda emphasises local and subnational action, highlighting announcements on housing, water, waste reduction, buildings, infrastructure, and governance. Events such as the High-Level Ministerial on Multilevel Governance and the Beat the Heat Global Mutirão High-Level Event showcase how cities, regions, and communities are translating ambition into safer homes, cleaner water, and stronger local economies. The launch of the Plan to Accelerate Multilevel Governance and the operationalisation of the Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships (CHAMP) further embeds local leadership into global climate frameworks.

Day 2 of COP30 also saw the release of the Yearbook of Global Climate Action 2025, which shows that 95% of countries now engage cities, businesses, and civil society in climate implementation, while also highlighting the need for stronger alignment between national ambition and local delivery.

After COP30, Minister Richmond will visit Colombia to meet government representatives, Irish Aid partners, and the Irish diaspora, while observing the impact of Ireland’s support for peacebuilding initiatives.

Minister Richmond added: “Through Irish Aid, we continue to support Colombia’s efforts to build peace. Our experience in conflict resolution and reconciliation is well recognised, and I look forward to meeting the communities we have supported on their journey from conflict to peace.”s we have supported on their journey from conflict to peace.”