COP26 President Alok Sharma told China that the country’s choices on coal “will shape our common future.”
The Cabinet Minister, who is leading the UK government’s efforts before the International summit on climate change COP26 in Glasgow in November, held talks with senior Chinese officials this week.
During his two-day talks in Tianjin City, Mr. Sharma had a series of meetings with Chinese climate envoy Xie Zhenhua.
Image: COP26 President Alok Sharma is in China for talks this week
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The two discussed President Xi Jinping’s pledges to make China carbon neutral by 2060, peak in emissions by 2030, and reduce the country’s use of coal.
They also spoke about China’s investment in renewable energy and the country’s large market for zero-emission vehicles.
During his trip, Sharma virtually met with other senior ministers, including Vice Premier Han Zheng and People’s Bank of China Governor Yi Gang.
He said the “constructive talks” were “nothing short of crucial” as “time is running out to avert a climate catastrophe”.
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But Sharma also told China questions remained about how quickly they would act on their climate commitments.
“The commitments that President Xi made over the past year are welcome and China’s commitment to tackle climate change as a shared mission for humanity is encouraging,” he said. declared.
“The choices made by China, on its energy mix, and on coal in particular, will shape our common future.
“The question that remains is how quickly they put them into action, along with other major emitters.
“I look forward to the release of more detailed plans showing how China’s goals will be achieved.
“Time is running out and the next decade will be decisive. All countries must step up the pace to reduce emissions and protect people and nature from the worst effects of climate change. “
