Antalya/Turkiye, November 10 (QNA) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed hope that the 31st UN Climate Change Conference (COP31), hosted by Turkiye's southern province of Antalya, would mark a new beginning in addressing climate change challenges.

Speaking during a meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the conference, Erdogan said Turkiye was pleased to assume the COP31 presidency and had completed the necessary preparations to ensure its success.

He expressed hope that the conference would open a new path toward solutions to climate-related problems, according to a statement by the Turkish Presidency's Directorate of Communications.

Separately, Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz met with President of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly Khalilur Rahman to discuss translating climate commitments into tangible action and strengthening international solidarity to combat climate change.

In a post on Turkiye's NSosyal platform, Yilmaz said the talks addressed the needs of developing countries, stronger international cooperation and turning COP31 commitments into concrete measures.

They also exchanged views on establishing a fairer, more inclusive and effective UN system, strengthening multilateral cooperation, and regional and international developments.

COP31 opened in Antalya on Monday, marking the first time Turkiye has hosted the UN climate conference. The event runs through November 20. (QNA)