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Today, within Brazil's Amazon region, the Belém summit opens ahead of the UN's 30th climate summit (Cop30). I have convened global heads of state in the days leading up to the conference so that we can all commit to acting with the urgency that the environmental emergency requires.

If we fail to move beyond rhetoric to tangible steps, public trust will diminish – not only in the Cops, but in multilateralism and international politics more broadly. This is the reason for convening leaders to the Amazon: to establish this as the "truthful Cop", the occasion where we prove our collective dedication's gravity toward Earth.

People have demonstrated their capacity to conquer major obstacles through united efforts and scientific guidance. We protected the ozone layer. Worldwide actions during the Covid-19 crisis showed that decisive global action is possible with bravery and governmental determination.

Brazil hosted the Earth Summit in 1992. Agreements on climate, biodiversity, and desertification were endorsed, and adopted principles that defined a new paradigm for preserving Earth and humankind. Over the past 33 years, these gatherings have produced important agreements and goals for cutting emissions – including halting deforestation by 2030 to tripling renewable energy capacity.

After over thirty years, global attention returns to Brazil to confront climate change. It is no coincidence that Cop30 takes place deep within the Amazon jungle. It offers a chance for leaders, envoys, researchers, campaigners, and reporters to observe the Amazon's actual conditions. Our aim is for global observation of the true state of the forests, the planet’s largest river basin, and the numerous inhabitants of the area. Climate conferences must not just display concepts or annual gatherings for negotiators. They should serve as encounters with actuality and of effective action to tackle climate change.

To confront this crisis together, we need resources. It's crucial to acknowledge that the concept of shared yet varied duties remains the non-negotiable foundation of any climate pact. That is why the global south demands increased resource availability – not out of charity, but justice. Rich countries have benefited the most from fossil fuel economies. They must now rise to their responsibilities, not only by making commitments but by honouring their debts.

Brazil is doing its part. In only two years, Amazon deforestation has been cut by half by us, demonstrating that real environmental measures can work.

At Belém, we are introducing an innovative initiative to preserve forests: the TFFF fund. Its novelty lies in functioning as a financial investment tool, not a donation mechanism. The fund will compensate forest preservers and those who invest in the fund. A true mutually beneficial strategy to tackling climate change. Setting an example, Brazil has pledged $1 billion to the TFFF, and we anticipate similarly bold pledges from other nations.

We also set an example by being the second nation to submit a fresh NDC. Brazil has vowed to cut its emissions by 59% to 67%, covering all greenhouse gases and every economic area. With this mindset, we urge all nations to present equally ambitious NDCs and to execute them thoroughly.

The energy transition is fundamental to meeting Brazil’s NDC. Our energy mix is one of the globe's greenest, as 88% of our power is renewable. We excel in biofuel production and are progressing in wind, solar, and green hydrogen.

Redirecting revenues from oil production to finance a just, orderly and equitable energy transition will be essential. In the long run, global petroleum firms, such as Brazil's Petrobras, will transform into energy companies, since an economic model reliant on fossil fuels cannot last.

People must be at the centre of political decisions about climate and the energy transition. We must recognise that society's most at-risk groups are the most affected by the impacts of climate change, this is why equitable transition and adjustment strategies must aim to combat inequality.

We cannot forget that 2 billion people lack access to clean cooking methods and fuels, and over 673 million face hunger. In response, we are introducing in Belém a statement on hunger, poverty, and climate. Our pledge to combat climate change must be directly linked to the fight against hunger.

It is also fundamental that we advance the reform of global governance. Currently, international cooperation is hindered by the stagnation of the UN security council. Created to preserve peace, it has not stopped conflicts. Hence, it is our responsibility to advocate for reforming this body. During Cop30, we will push for the creation of a UN climate change council connected to the General Assembly. It would be a new governance structure with the power and credibility to ensure that countries deliver on their promises, and an effective step toward reversing the current paralysis of the multilateral system.

During each environmental summit, we hear many promises but see too few real commitments. The time for intention statements is over: the time for action plans has arrived. This is why we commence today the “Cop of truth”.