Australia will not host the UN's annual climate summit in 2026, instead yielding to a rival bid from Turkey.

Three years of campaigning to bring the COP31 climate talks to Adelaide, in partnership with Pacific nations, were dashed in last-gasp negotiations at the 2025 event in Brazil.

While Australia had the overwhelming backing of the "Western" grouping to stage the 2026 event, under UN rules hosting rights are decided by consensus and negotiation, not a vote.

In a stand-off where Turkey was unwilling to cede ground, and with a deadline looming, Australia compromised by withdrawing its hopes to stage the event.

Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen, Australia's representative at the COP talks, said an in-principle deal would see the summit go to Antalya, and Mr Bowen taking the role of

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