Brazil: COP30 building evacuated due to fire

(AFP) A fire broke out Thursday at the central pavilion where COP30 is being held in Belém, Brazil, forcing security agents to evacuate the venue, AFP reported.

The flames started at the entrance to the venue and spread rapidly. According to an AFP reporter on the scene, the fire opened a hole in the roof and reached other structures in the pavilion.

Smoke began to spread inside, as security and U.N. personnel rushed with fire extinguishers to try to contain the blaze.

Fire crews were also present.

Thousands of conference attendees were evacuated and waiting quietly outside, AFP noted.

The fire broke out as ministers from around the world were immersed in negotiations on issues such as energy transition and climate finance, with one day to go before the climate conference ends.