Representatives from more than 50 nations [1] met in Santa Marta, Colombia, to establish a pathway for phasing out fossil fuels.

The gathering aimed to break the deadlock within United Nations climate processes by focusing on the practicalities of a just transition. By addressing the financing and logistical steps required to move away from coal, oil, and gas, the summit sought to create a viable alternative to stalled international negotiations.

The summit concluded April 28, 2026 [3]. Participants included representatives from more than 50 nations [1] and approximately 60 governments [2]. The discussions centered on how to manage the economic and social shifts necessary to exit fossil fuel dependency without leaving developing economies behind.

Graham Lloyd said the event was an extension of the existing COP process where officials have met regularly to discuss the transition. Lloyd said that while participants may not reach a formal agreement for a total phase-out, they are instead setting out a pathway for an exit from fossil fuels.

The Colombian venue served as a hub for ministers to grapple with the financial mechanisms required to support this shift. The focus remained on creating a framework that ensures the transition is financed, and equitable, for all participating nations.

This effort represents a strategic attempt to move beyond the diplomatic friction often found in larger U.S. forums. By narrowing the scope to practical pathways and financing, the Santa Marta summit aimed to produce a roadmap that countries can implement regardless of the broader geopolitical climate.

“They are setting out a pathway for an exit from fossil fuels.”

The Santa Marta summit signals a shift toward 'minilateralism' in climate policy, where smaller groups of committed nations attempt to create actionable frameworks outside the often-paralyzed U.N. COP process. By prioritizing the 'how' of financing and practical implementation over the 'if' of a total phase-out, these nations are attempting to build a pragmatic bridge toward decarbonization that can be scaled globally.