China calls to transform development pattern to address climate change

Chinese President Xi Jinping's special representative Ding Xuexiang, also Chinese vice premier, on Tuesday called for collective action in the face of climate challenges and highlighted the necessity of a fundamental shift in development patterns to tackle climate change.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks while attending the World Leaders Climate Action Summit at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, where he delivered a speech on global climate governance.

Marking the 30th anniversary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Ding emphasized that the global community must work together to push for successful outcomes at COP29. He called on all nations to rise to the occasion and meet the expectations of the international community, stressing the urgency of collective action in the face of climate challenges.

Ding reiterated the principle of common, but differentiated responsibilities, saying developed countries must demonstrate greater ambition by fulfilling their emissions reduction commitments and advancing carbon neutrality, while developing countries must also make their best efforts within their own capacities.

He underlined that tackling climate change requires a fundamental shift in development patterns. As part of this transformation, Ding highlighted the importance of accelerating the global energy transition in a fair, orderly and just manner. He emphasized the need for stability in the new energy industry chain and supply chain, while also promoting the innovation and accessibility of green products and technologies.

Ding further stressed the role of funding and technology transfer in helping developing countries enhance their climate resilience and adopt sustainable practices. He called on developed countries to increase financial support and provide greater technology transfer to developing nations, enabling them to meet their climate goals.

He expressed hope that the summit would lead to the establishment of more ambitious funding targets that would provide the necessary resources for the next phase of global climate action.

In the end, Ding affirmed China's readiness to work with all countries, guided by the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, to safeguard the earth and promote a clean and sustainable future for all.