In an unconventional departure from traditional diplomatic norms, leaders and delegates at a climate meeting in Belem, Brazil, embraced a more relaxed dress code as they grappled with the sweltering Amazonian heat. Despite the organizers’ suggestion to adopt informal attire, several heads of state and government arrived in full business suits, only to quickly shed their ties in response to the oppressive 30-degree Celsius (86-degree Fahrenheit) temperatures. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who typically sports his signature ‘lucky tie’ in the colors of the Brazilian flag, set the tone by opting for a tie-less look. This move was soon mirrored by other attendees, including Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who removed his tie even before entering the venue. The decision to encourage a ‘tie-less’ summit was announced last month by COP30 president Andre Correa do Lago, aiming to enhance comfort and infuse the event with a distinctly Brazilian informality. As delegates navigated the outdoor walkways under the blazing sun, neckwear became a low priority, with many attendees visibly perspiring. Inside the air-conditioned conference center, however, the atmosphere remained cool and comfortable. Brazil has pledged to offset all carbon emissions generated by the summit’s cooling systems. Among the leaders who embraced the open-collar look were United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the presidents of Finland, Chile, Mozambique, and Colombia. The two-day summit precedes the 30th UN Climate COP, which opens on Monday.
Antigua PM and other World leaders ditch ties at sweaty climate summit
