Liu Zhenmin Appointed China's Special Envoy for Climate Change
Liu Zhenmin has been named China’s new special envoy for climate change, signaling a continued commitment to collaborative climate efforts with the United States.
Cameron Jordan
- 2024-01-12
- Updated 05:48 AM ET
(NewsNibs) - Following a history of joint cooperation on climate initiatives, which was highlighted at the China-US summit in San Francisco, Liu Zhenmin steps into the role as China’s special envoy for climate change. This move comes as part of the broader "21st Century Climate Action Workgroup," a recent collaboration platform between the two powers. The group's inaugural video conference, held on a recent Friday, saw the participation of high-level officials, including outgoing Chinese special envoy Xie Zhenhua and his counterpart, US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry.
Inaugural Meeting Success
The first meeting of the "21st Century Climate Action Workgroup" is being hailed as a success, with discussions centering on key issues such as the energy transition, controlling methane emissions, promoting a circular economy, and developing low-carbon local governments. Chinese participants Zhao Chenxin, Zhao Yingmin, and Ren Jingdong joined US delegates David Turk and Radhika Fox in these productive conversations. Both sides emphasized the importance of maintaining close communications, sharing experiences, and engaging in practical cooperation on climate action going forward.
The dialogue aligns with the objectives outlined in the Sunnylands Statement, which underscores the importance of enhancing cooperation in the face of the global climate crisis. Liu, succeeding Xie Zhenhua who has stepped down for health reasons, brings his experience as the former vice-minister of foreign affairs to the table. His role will focus on international cooperation and negotiations pertaining to climate change, and he is expected to ensure a seamless continuation of the ongoing dialogue with John Kerry and other US representatives.
This transition marks a pivotal moment in China's climate diplomacy, with Liu Zhenmin's appointment reflecting both nations' resolve to tackle the impending challenges of climate change through mutual efforts and strategic cooperation.
