Lula Opens Belém Airport and Port for COP30 as U.S. Skips Leaders’ Summit

Overview

• The White House confirmed it will not send high‑level officials to the Leaders’ Summit, and reports indicate only a low‑level U.S. federal delegation is expected for the COP sessions.
• Lula inaugurated a R$450 million airport expansion that lifts capacity to about 13 million passengers a year and a revamped Porto de Outeiro with a 716‑meter pier and 80,000‑ton capacity, prepared to berth cruise ships used as lodging.
• The Leaders’ Summit runs Nov. 6–7 ahead of COP30’s plenary from Nov. 10–21, with 57 heads of state expected and European leaders confirmed alongside China’s vice premier.
• Brazil and partners secured World Bank stewardship of the Tropical Forests Finance Facility, a centerpiece for Amazon funding, over a U.S. dissenting position on the board.
• More than 100 U.S. governors, mayors and other subnational leaders plan to participate, reflecting domestic engagement despite the federal no‑show.