In a pivotal move ahead of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, China’s special envoy for climate change, Liu Zhenmin, emphasized the necessity of global collaboration to address the escalating challenges of climate change.
Speaking with Xinhua, Liu highlighted China’s commitment to working alongside the European Union (EU) and other international partners to advance the implementation of the Paris Agreement. He stressed that both developed and developing nations must unite their efforts to achieve meaningful progress.
Financial Support and Responsibilities
Liu called upon developed countries to lead in providing financial assistance to developing nations, underscoring this as both a moral duty and a requirement outlined in the Paris Agreement. Reflecting on the 2009 UN climate conference in Copenhagen, he noted that while developed countries pledged $100 billion annually to support energy transitions in developing nations, this goal has yet to be fully realized.
\"This funding is modest compared to the vast resources needed for the global energy transition, but it has served as a demonstration of effective global cooperation,\" Liu remarked. He added that such financial support is crucial for mobilizing international market funds and attracting private investment, which are essential for overcoming climate challenges.
As COP29 aims to set new global climate finance targets beyond 2025, Liu acknowledged the potential difficulties in reaching a consensus but remains optimistic about collaborative efforts.
EU's Position and Internal Challenges
Earlier in October, the Council of the EU reached a consensus on its negotiating stance for COP29, advocating for a new collective and quantified global climate finance goal. However, the statement did not specify the EU's own responsibilities, instead urging all countries, including emerging economies, to take on a larger share of financial obligations.
Liu observed that despite the EU's proactive role in supporting climate finance over the past decade, recent political shifts within the European Parliament and various member states have led to a decline in enthusiasm for climate initiatives among some parties. He cautioned that these internal challenges should not deter the EU from fulfilling its international climate commitments.
China's Green Transition Efforts
Highlighting China’s strides in its own green transition, Liu pointed to the nation’s advancements in electrifying the transportation sector and the proliferation of high-speed rail as key measures in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the rapid adoption of electric vehicles in China has significantly contributed to emission reductions and improved pollution control.
Looking forward to COP29, Liu reiterated China’s dedication to engaging constructively with the EU and other countries on all agenda items. He emphasized China’s goal of achieving substantial outcomes that will enhance the effective implementation of the Paris Agreement. Furthermore, China plans to continue supporting other developing countries through South-South cooperation, offering assistance within its capacity.
\"Addressing climate change requires the collective efforts of both developed and developing countries,\" Liu concluded. \"China will remain a steadfast advocate for global climate cooperation.\"
(With input from Xinhua)
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China's special envoy calls for joint efforts to tackle climate change
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