China’s Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang has called for the removal of trade barriers that he said are slowing down the world’s transition to clean energy. Speaking at a global climate summit in Brazil on Thursday, Ding urged nations to practise “true multilateralism” and enhance cooperation on green technology and industry.
Push For Global Cooperation On Green Development
“We need to strengthen international collaboration on green technology and industry, remove trade barriers, and ensure the free flow of quality green products to better meet the needs of global sustainable development,” Ding said through a translator.
According to China’s official Xinhua news agency, Ding also urged developed nations to take the lead in cutting emissions and to meet their funding pledges to support developing countries. “Developed countries should fulfil their obligations to take the lead in emission reduction, earnestly honour their funding commitments, and provide more support to developing countries,” he said.
He added that China remains willing to work with all countries to promote “green and low-carbon development” on a sustained basis.
China’s Climate Commitments
Chinese President Xi Jinping announced in September that China aims to cut economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions by between 7% and 10% by 2035 from its peak level. Under its nationally determined contribution targets, the country plans to ensure that non-fossil fuels account for more than 30% of total energy consumption by the same year.
China is currently the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases but also the biggest investor in renewable energy. The government has been expanding its solar and wind capacity while supporting electric vehicle production and clean technology exports.
Ding’s remarks in Brazil highlight Beijing’s attempt to position itself as a global leader in the green transition, while pressing developed economies to remove barriers that could restrict trade in environmentally friendly technologies.
(with inputs from Reuters)
