COP30 venue in Belem reopens after fire halts talks

Belem: The venue hosting the COP30 UN climate talks in Belem has reopened following a fire, Brazilian officials said Thursday night.

"Brazilian authorities have restored operating conditions at the conference venue," they said in a statement, adding that talks would resume on Friday.

The incident had prompted evacuations across several parts of the site. Officials confirmed that the fire was immediately brought under control, and no injuries or casualties were reported.

The fire originated in the 'Blue Zone,' which houses the plenary hall, negotiations, country pavilions, media centre, and offices for high-profile dignitaries. Firefighters responded swiftly, and the area was evacuated for safety checks. The UNFCCC issued an urgent advisory urging all to evacuate, indicating a “fire incident in Zone B” and promising further updates.