Fire breaks out at COP30 venue, China Pavilion unaffected
(ECNS) -- A fire broke out at the main venue of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, on Thursday (Nov. 20). No casualties have been reported so far.
According to Reuters, the blaze erupted at around 2 p.m. local time. Negotiators were preparing to finalize an agreement to strengthen global climate action when the fire triggered an emergency evacuation.
TV footage shows flames suddenly breaking out inside the exhibition hall and quickly spreading to the internal fabric lining on the walls and ceiling before being extinguished. Thick smoke filled the venue, prompting delegates to flee.
Brazil's Tourism Minister Celso Sabino said at around 2:30 p.m. the fire had been brought under control, Singapore's Lianhe Zaobao reported.
According to Reuters, the local fire service said it was probably caused by electrical equipment, likely a microwave, and was controlled within six minutes.
According to Xinhua News Agency, no casualties have been reported, and the “China Pavilion” area was not affected by the fire.
UN climate negotiators failed to meet a Wednesday deadline to reach an agreement. UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Thursday urged delegates to remain flexible and welcomed calls from some parties for clarity on the contentious issue of a global phase-out of fossil fuels.
（By Evelyn）