Global Climate Governance: Xi Jinping calls for Renewed Multilateralism and Fair Transition
Table of Contents
A Crossroads for Humanity: Addressing Climate Change Amidst Global Shifts
President Xi Jinping addressed global leaders via video conference, emphasizing the critical juncture humanity faces in addressing climate change. Speaking on the backdrop of the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement and the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Xi highlighted the unprecedented pace of global change and the need for renewed commitment to international cooperation.
Despite challenges such as unilateralism and protectionism,which disrupt international norms,Xi expressed optimism that global climate governance can advance through strengthened confidence,solidarity,and cooperation. This comes at a time when global temperatures continue to rise, with 2024 being the hottest year on record
, according to the World Meteorological Association. The urgency for collaborative action has never been more apparent.
Four Pillars for Global Climate Action
xi Jinping outlined four key areas for advancing global climate action:
Upholding Multilateralism and international Law
Xi stressed the importance of adhering to multilateralism, urging all nations to safeguard the UN system and the international order underpinned by international law. He emphasized the need for international equity and justice, calling on countries to uphold the rule of law, fulfill their commitments, and prioritize green development with low carbon emissions.
We must adhere to multilateralism… all countries must firmly safeguard the UN international system and the international order supported by international law.Xi Jinping, President of China
Deepening International Cooperation for Technological Advancement
Xi advocated for enhanced international cooperation to overcome divisions and foster technological innovation and industrial transformation. He called for facilitating the free flow of quality ecological technologies and products, ensuring they are accessible and affordable for all nations, particularly developing countries. This is crucial as developing nations often lack the resources to implement green technologies independently.
We must overcome the distancing and conflict with openness and inclusion, boost technological innovation and industrial transformation through cooperation.Xi Jinping, President of China
China’s commitment to South-South cooperation underscores its willingness to assist developing nations in their climate efforts.
Accelerating a Fair and People-Centric Transition
Xi emphasized the need for a fair transition that prioritizes the well-being of people while simultaneously advancing climate governance. He called for balancing environmental protection, economic growth, employment creation, and poverty alleviation. Developed countries, he argued, have a responsibility to provide assistance and support to developing countries, contributing to a global shift towards ecological and low-carbon development.
The green transformation must be focused on people and pursue in a way that simultaneously drives their well -being and climatic governance.Xi Jinping, President of China
Strengthening Results-Oriented Actions and National Contributions
Xi urged all parties to formulate and implement enterprising Nationally Resolute Contributions (NDCs), coordinating economic development and energy transition.China plans to announce its specific NDCs by 2035, covering all economic sectors and greenhouse gases, before the United Nations Conference on Climate Change in Belém, Brazil. This commitment reflects a proactive approach to achieving tangible results in emissions reduction.
All parties must do everything possible to formulate and implement their action program for nationwide contributions.Xi Jinping, President of China
China’s Commitment to Ecological Development and Global cooperation
Xi Jinping reiterated China’s commitment to harmony between man and nature, highlighting the nation’s role as a firm actor and notable contributor to global ecological development. He noted the rapid growth of China’s renewable energy sector and its leadership in forest repopulation, contributing a quarter of the world’s newly added forest area.
despite global uncertainties, Xi affirmed that China will maintain its climate actions, support international cooperation, and strive to build a community with a shared future for humanity. China’s willingness to work with all parties, adhering to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, signals a continued commitment to building a clean, beautiful, and sustainable world. This includes significant investments in renewable energy infrastructure and sustainable technologies, positioning China as a key player in the global green transition.