The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, today warned of a “global turning point” in the face of the worsening of extreme climate phenomena and the risks to energy security, defending efforts to reduce pollutant emissions.
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11/11/2026
by
Lusa
A president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, today warned of a “global turning point” in the face of the worsening of extreme climate phenomena and the risks to energy security, defending efforts to reduce polluting emissions.
“ The world is witnessing the cost of continuing to maintain the current state of affairs, both for our climate and for our energy security. This is a global turning point,” said Ursula von der Leyen.
In a speech at the United Nations Conference on Climate Change (COP31), held in Antalia, Turkey, Von der Leyen pointed out that “this was the summer of truth”, extreme phenomena such as “flooding in Nepal, droughts from Sudan to Central America and, in Europe, one of the worst times of forest fires recorded.”.
“ At the same time as the climate crisis worsens, disturbances in energy supply through the Strait of Ormuz are shaking the global energy markets,” he said, alluding to the consequences of Iran’s war caused by US and Israeli attacks.
In this speech, Ursula von der Leyen pointed out that “the latest report of the United Nations is clear”, by demonstrating that the world is “in the way of overcoming the 1.5 degree goal and each fraction of degree counts.”.
“ We therefore need to step up our efforts and Europe will do its part,” she said.
Von der Leyen highlighted three priorities of the European Union (EU), including meeting climate commitments, speeding up electrification and strengthening international partnerships.
The leader of the EU executive ensured that the EU “is on track” to meet the 2030 target, having reduced emissions by more than half, and set the goal of achieving a 90% reduction by 2040, on a path to becoming the first continent with climate neutrality.
Electrification was another priority, with the President of the European Commission defending support for the Global Electrification Commitment 35 by 2035.
Von der Leyen stated that more than 70% of electricity consumed in the EU last year originated from clean sources and that the Electrification Action Plan aims to double the percentage of electricity consumed in final energy consumption to 46% by 2040.
She also stressed the importance of international cooperation, considering that the transition to a clean economy will only be successful if it advances worldwide.
In this context, it indicated that the EU contributed more than €32 billion to support developing countries last year and mobilised more than €300 billion in sustainable investments through the Global Gateway initiative.
“The transition to a clean economy is in everyone’s interest,” said Ursula von der Leyen.
COP31, which began on Monday and brings together representatives from almost 200 countries, will run until November 20 in the city of Antalia, Turkey.