China Calls for Stability in U.S. Climate Policy Ahead of Elections
China has urged the United States to maintain consistency in its climate policy and collaborate further, despite potential changes following the upcoming US elections. Officials highlighted the positive developments in climate cooperation, particularly since the Xi-Biden meeting, and emphasized the importance of this collaboration as both nations prepare for the COP29 summit.
Beijing expressed its desire for the United States to uphold “consistency” in its climate policy and to continue fostering bilateral collaboration, irrespective of the impending election results scheduled for next week. Notably, the cooperation between the two nations regarding climate policy has intensified since the meeting of Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden in San Francisco nearly one year ago. However, concerns arise as the upcoming US election on November 5 may potentially witness the return of climate skeptic Donald Trump to the presidency. In light of this, Xia Yingxian, the director of China’s Department of Climate Change, commented during a recent press briefing regarding the prospective repercussions a new US administration could have on their ongoing cooperation, stating that “[China] hoped the US can continue to maintain the stability and consistency of its policies in the climate field.” Moreover, Xia emphasized the importance of the “very sustained and in-depth cooperation” that has transpired between the two countries, facilitated by initiatives such as the US-China Working Group on Enhancing Climate Action, which was established in January. Since the inception of this working group, climate change has emerged as a notable domain of collaboration amidst the broader geopolitical tensions that often characterize the relationship between China and the United States. In September, US climate envoy John Podesta visited Beijing and following his discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, it was indicated that plans were advancing toward a summit focused on reducing methane emissions. As the world’s two largest emitters of greenhouse gases, both countries play critical roles in the global effort to combat climate change. Looking forward, China and the United States are set to participate in climate discussions at the upcoming COP29 summit in Azerbaijan next month. China has set ambitious targets, aiming to reach peak carbon dioxide emissions before the year 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
The topic of climate change cooperation between China and the United States is particularly significant given the contrasting political landscapes and the global environmental challenges at hand. Both nations are responsible for a substantial proportion of domestic and international greenhouse gas emissions, and their collaborative efforts are vital for addressing climate challenges effectively. Historical reluctance from some US political factions to acknowledge climate change complicates bilateral cooperation, making China’s call for a stable US climate policy all the more pertinent. This cooperation is increasingly highlighted through specialized working groups and high-level discussions, symbolizing a rare area of unity between these geopolitical rivals.
In summary, China is advocating for stable and consistent climate policies from the United States, especially in light of the upcoming elections that may shift the political landscape. Continuous bilateral cooperation has been evident since last year’s pivotal meeting between President Xi and President Biden. As both countries prepare for significant climate discussions at COP29, their joint efforts are critical in the global fight against climate change, a challenge that demands unwavering commitment and cooperative action on both sides.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
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