Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan left the leaders' reception area at COP31 before the arrival of President Nikos Christodoulides, leaving UN Secretary-General António Guterres to welcome the Cypriot president on his own.
The development prompted a reaction from the Cypriot government, which reportedly viewed Erdogan's departure as a gesture of disregard towards the Republic of Cyprus.
Erdogan meets Erhurman
Earlier, Erdogan welcomed Tufan Erhurman at the summit venue in Antalya.
According to the report, Erhurman arrived before the official reception of heads of state began and before Guterres had taken his place in the receiving line.
Christodoulides welcomed by Guterres
When Christodoulides arrived, Erdogan was no longer present at the reception area.
The president was greeted by Guterres and was seen smiling as he shook hands with the UN chief.
Government reaction
According to information cited by Politis, the Cypriot government interpreted Erdogan's departure before Christodoulides' arrival as a sign of disregard towards the Republic of Cyprus.
Government sources also reportedly viewed the move as inappropriate given that the event was being held under the auspices of the United Nations.
Summit under way in Antalya
The incident took place on the sidelines of COP31 in Antalya, where world leaders have gathered for discussions on climate change, energy and climate financing.
Antalya Correspondent: Filippos Polo
