A sudden fire broke out at the primary venue of the United Nations’ COP30 climate conference in Belém, Brazil, causing chaos and forcing delegates and observers to evacuate the premises. The blaze erupted in a pavilion within the complex, sending thick plumes of smoke through the corridors and triggering a frantic rush for the exits. Emergency response teams swiftly arrived at the scene to contain the fire and ensure the safety of all attendees. Matthew Samuda, Jamaica’s Minister for the Environment and head of the country’s delegation, confirmed to Observer Online that all members of the Jamaican team were unharmed. The incident occurred during critical last-minute negotiations, raising concerns about potential disruptions to the high-stakes discussions aimed at addressing global climate challenges. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, while organizers assess the impact on the conference’s schedule and outcomes.
