This was stated in an official announcement published by Western media today, Thursday, explaining that the limited budget allocated to the Austrian presidency does not allow for bearing the exceptional expenses associated with attending the conference. It was noted that logistical costs in the city are high, especially hotel prices. Belém, which is hosting the conference, faces criticism from some participants due to high accommodation prices, with the cost of a night in some hotels exceeding a thousand dollars. The conference organizers have described this as “unjustified exploitation,” while confirming that preparations are ongoing and the venue will not change. Despite his criticism of the costs, the Austrian president emphasized the importance of the event and wished Brazil success in organizing it, while stressing the necessity of financial discipline at this stage. It is worth noting that Van der Bellen is one of the prominent European voices supporting climate issues, and Austria is one of the few countries led by a president from the Green camp, despite being one of Europe’s wealthiest nations.
