United States and China have reached “understandings and agreements” on climate issues, providing a positive foundation for progress at the upcoming COP28 talks scheduled to commence in Dubai later this month. U.S. climate envoy John Kerry revealed the breakthrough after a four-day meeting with his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua at Sunnylands, California, characterizing the discussions as tough and serious.
Kerry, speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in Singapore, noted moments of challenge in the negotiations but affirmed the emergence of “very solid understandings and agreements.” The collaborative efforts are expected to contribute to the COP discussions and advance global initiatives focused on renewables and other climate-related goals.
Details of the agreements will be released shortly, according to Kerry. One key agreement highlighted by the U.S. climate envoy pertains to climate loss and damage, allowing any country to contribute to a fund supporting regions most vulnerable to climate impacts.
The cooperation between the world's two largest economies and leading greenhouse gas emitters holds particular significance for achieving consensus at COP28. Anticipated areas of focus during the talks include climate finance and ambitious energy transition goals.
Addressing concerns about China's ongoing construction of coal-fired power plants, a focal point for COP28 discussions, Kerry emphasized the need for responsible global action. China's commitment to cutting fossil fuel use remains a critical aspect of the negotiations, with its energy security and economic growth objectives playing a role in shaping its stance.
While acknowledging China's significant coal-fired power capacity in the construction pipeline, Kerry pointed out the country's efforts to transition away from such projects. He emphasized the global responsibility to refrain from funding new coal-fired power plants, characterizing it as irresponsible.
As the world awaits further details of the agreements and the outcome of COP28, the collaboration between the United States and China signals a positive step toward addressing shared climate challenges and fostering international cooperation.
