Minister Murat Kurum, addressing the ministers at the COP27 conference, spoke about Turkey's Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) and the vision for the "Turkey Century" put forth by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan as the country approaches its centenary. He stated, "We have initiated a new phase in our fight against climate change with Turkey’s net-zero emissions and green development goals for 2053. Our vision, which centers on the environment, humanity, and nature, aims to ensure that no one and no place is left behind."

He emphasized that the NDC was prepared through a participatory and transparent approach, incorporating consultations with all institutions and the private sector. The updated document includes seven emission reduction sectors and adaptation components, setting more ambitious targets in line with Turkey's green transformation. The reduction target for 2030 has been raised from an announced increase of 21% to a reduction of 41%, equating to an estimated reduction of about 500 million tons of emissions by that year.

Kurum mentioned the importance of combating climate change as a necessity and stressed that achieving the 1.5-degree target of the Paris Agreement is not optional but essential for all countries. He expressed Turkey's commitment to hosting the 31st Conference of the Parties in 2026 and highlighted the significant transformations expected across various sectors in line with the National Contribution Statement, including in energy, industry, and waste management.

He also noted the expected contributions of Turkey’s domestic electric vehicle, TOGG, to the green transition. In discussing Turkey's environmental and climate policies, Kurum reiterated the nation's leadership role in hosting significant international meetings and emphasized the importance of collaboration and solidarity in addressing global climate challenges. 

The Minister concluded by urging ongoing awareness and advocacy for the issue of loss and damage, particularly in light of the recent catastrophic flooding in Pakistan, reinforcing the notion that such disasters could occur anywhere.