Beijing, 5 September 2024 (TDI): In an effort to stabilize bilateral relations and promote practical cooperation, John Podesta, the US Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy, began a three-day visit to China on Wednesday.
The trip follows US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s visit to China in late August, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve diplomatic relations amid global climate challenges.
This high-level meeting presents a crucial opportunity for both countries to foster positive relations and contribute to global efforts against climate change, analysts noted.
Podesta and China’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, Liu Zhenmin, will co-chair the second meeting of the Working Group on Enhancing Climate Action in the 2020s.
The meeting will be focused on domestic climate policies and multilateral strategies to tackle climate change.
The meeting follows an initial round of talks in May, where both sides agreed to cooperate on methane emissions control and reduction.
This week’s discussions are expected to address global emissions reduction, funding for impoverished countries, and measures to bridge gaps for a successful COP29 in Azerbaijan in November, according to media reports.
Climate Issues Provide Constructive Platform
Lü Xiang, a US affairs expert at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that climate issues provide a constructive platform for dialogue that could ease tensions between China and the US.
Lü emphasized the need for both sides to stabilize relations as the current US administration approaches its conclusion.
He added that cooperation on climate change is critical for both nations, given the global threat it poses and the urgent need for action.
“This consensus can guide China and the US to find common ground in negotiations despite their strategic competition,” Lü said.
Lü also pointed to the US’ sanctions and tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and photovoltaic panels, arguing that meaningful climate cooperation cannot occur under coercive conditions.
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“The US should align its policies with its carbon reduction pledges,” he asserted, stressing the importance of actions over slogans and warning against “vicious competition in green industries.”
There is also concern over Washington’s policy consistency, as highlighted by the US’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement in 2020 and rejoining in 2021, observers noted.
The outcome of the current climate talks may help clarify the US’ long-term commitment to global climate goals.
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