UK energy minister Ed Miliband is visiting China for climate talks, the first by a UK minister since 2017. He aims to reinforce commitments to the Paris Agreement and address human rights issues. The UK and China have ambitious climate targets, urging collaborative efforts against climate change.
The UK energy minister, Ed Miliband, is scheduled to visit China to rally support for climate commitments. This marks the first visit by a UK energy minister to Beijing since 2017. During the visit, Miliband aims to express the urgency of addressing the climate emergency and to discuss fulfilling the goals set by the Paris climate agreement, especially in light of the US withdrawal from the pact initiated by President Trump.
Miliband emphasizes the importance of engaging with China on climate issues for the sake of current and future generations. He plans to also bring attention to human rights concerns, specifically regarding Hong Kong and the treatment of the Uyghur population. Additionally, he aims to invite Chinese officials to London later in the year to restore formal climate discussions between the UK and China.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has advocated for increased engagement with China, notwithstanding ongoing security and human rights concerns. Notably, China, while being the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, is also a leader in renewable energy and has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. The UK has set its climate targets for complete decarbonization by 2050 and is transitioning to clean energy sources to stimulate its economy.
Ed Miliband’s upcoming visit to China underscores the UK’s commitment to combating climate change and fostering international dialogue on climate policies. His focus on engaging with China, despite ethical concerns, indicates the significance of collaborative efforts in addressing the climate crisis. With both nations having ambitious carbon reduction timelines, this engagement may be pivotal for global climate action and economic revitalization.
Original Source: www.france24.com
