Beijing, October 12, 2023 — In a significant move commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, China and France have issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to combating climate change. The announcement was made on Thursday in Beijing, highlighting the urgency of global cooperation in addressing environmental challenges.
The two sides emphasized the critical need to implement the Paris Agreement fully and effectively. They pledged to enhance cooperation on energy efficiency and decarbonization across key sectors such as energy, industry, transportation, and buildings. Both nations agreed to work towards a just, orderly, and equitable transition away from fossil fuels, actively promoting green and low-carbon socio-economic development.
Global Collaboration
China and France underscored the importance of international cooperation within multilateral frameworks. They highlighted their determination to provide solutions to major global challenges, especially in light of some countries moving away from scientific consensus and withdrawing from multilateral institutions. The joint statement called for accelerated collective action based on the best available science and considering different national circumstances.
Looking Ahead to COP30
With the 30th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC (COP30) approaching, both countries committed to enhancing coordination in support of the Brazilian presidency. They aim to strengthen efforts and communication regarding their upcoming ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), ensuring alignment with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Economic Opportunities and Social Benefits
The joint statement also highlighted the potential economic opportunities arising from climate actions. China and France acknowledged that efforts to combat climate change could lead to advancements in investment, financing, innovation, employment, and economic growth. They stressed the benefits to people’s living standards, health conditions, decent work, sustainable food systems, and affordable energy.
Biodiversity and Marine Conservation
Recognizing the synergy between the climate crisis and biodiversity loss, the two nations committed to implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and protecting ecosystems. They reaffirmed their pledge to halt and reverse deforestation and land degradation by 2030 and to promote nature-based solutions.
In strengthening global marine conservation, China expressed support for France in hosting the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice in 2025. Both sides are working towards the early entry into force of the Agreement on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction.
A Call for Unity
The statement concluded with a call for all parties to inject political impetus into international cooperation against climate change. As the world reflects on a decade since the Paris Agreement, China and France have demonstrated a shared commitment to a sustainable future, urging other nations to join in these critical efforts.
