The key facts

  • Turkey's Ministry of National Defense mehter orchestra performed for COP31 delegates in Antalya on November 11
  • The performance took place ahead of the leaders' summit on November 11–12, hosted by President Erdogan
  • The same ensemble previously performed at the 2026 NATO summit

An Ottoman tradition against the backdrop of climate negotiations

On Wednesday, November 11, in Antalya, the mehter orchestra — an ensemble operating under the auspices of Turkey's Ministry of National Defense — welcomed international delegates arriving at the COP31 venue. Musicians in traditional military costumes performed marches: some foreign guests clapped to the rhythm, while others began dancing and filming the moment on their phones.

Context of the performance

The performance took place on the third day of the conference, ahead of the leaders' summit on November 11–12, hosted by President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The mehter tradition is linked to the military bands of the Ottoman Empire, whose music, with powerful percussion and wind instruments, was a distinctive part of ceremonial events. The modern ensemble has also performed at other major international events, including the 2026 NATO summit. Against the backdrop of climate negotiations, the performance gave guests an opportunity to become acquainted with Turkey's musical heritage.