Delegations attend the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30), in Belem, Brazil, November 22, 2025. (Photo: REUTERS)

In securing the accord, Brazil hoped to demonstrate global unity even after the United States declined to send an official delegation.

Acknowledging that the deal left many frustrated, the head of the UN climate secretariat (UNFCCC) praised the delegates for coming together in a year of denial and division.

Several countries objected to the summit ending without stronger plans for reining in greenhouse gases or addressing fossil fuels.

Brazil's Latin American neighbors Colombia, Panama and Uruguay made multiple objections. Colombia's negotiator had noted that fossil fuels were by far the biggest contributor of planet-warming emissions. 

The three Latin American countries had been objecting not to COP30's overall deal, but to one of the more technical negotiating texts being approved.

They had joined the EU demanding the deal include language on a transition away from fossil fuels, while countries including Saudi Arabia said any mention was off-limits.

After tense overnight negotiations, the EU agreed not to block a final deal, but said it did not agree with the conclusion.