Top U.S. Climate Official Meets Chinese FM Wang Yi in Beijing

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a meeting on Friday in Beijing with John Podesta, who serves as the senior advisor to the U.S. president on international climate policy.

Top U.S. Climate Official Meets Chinese FM Wang Yi in Beijing
On Friday in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held discussions with John Podesta, who serves as the senior advisor to the U.S. president on international climate policy.

During the meeting, Wang Yi emphasized that the U.S. and China should cooperate as partners rather than contend as rivals. He stated, "China and the U.S. should be partners, not rivals; they should achieve mutual success, not engage in vicious competition, and be consistent in words and deeds."

Wang expressed Beijing's readiness to foster a robust, stable, and lasting relationship with Washington, echoing the agreements made during last year's San Francisco summit between the two nations' leaders.

He also highlighted the importance of tackling climate change, stating, "Addressing climate change will benefit the present and future of mankind and the planet Earth," and reaffirmed China's dedication to pursuing environmentally sustainable policies.

According to Wang, collaborative efforts on climate issues are crucial aspects of Sino-American relations and serve to fulfill the agreements made in San Francisco.

Wang underscored the accomplishments in climate cooperation achieved this year and urged the U.S. to ensure policy consistency, acknowledge China's legitimate interests, steer clear of protectionist measures, and work collaboratively to confront global challenges.

John Podesta responded positively, acknowledging that tackling climate issues is a pivotal area of agreement between the two nations' leaders and is crucial for global multilateral efforts. He remarked on the benefits of cooperation, saying, "The collaboration between the United States and China will not only benefit the people of both countries but also bring more welfare to the world."

Podesta confirmed the U.S.'s commitment to enhancing dialogue, improving coordination, and working constructively with China in the sphere of climate change.

Sophie Wagner for TROIB News