Intl cooperation seen as vital to advance global greening

Global experts praised China's development and leadership in advancing green and low-carbon transformation in Beijing on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation at a critical moment for tackling climate change and building a sustainable future for humanity.

"The theme of this year's gathering — 'Advancing the Green Transformation for a Harmonious Coexistence between Humans and Nature' — could not be more timely. It reflects not only China's vision, but also our shared regional mission under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," said Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, undersecretary-general of the United Nations and executive secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.

She noted that while Asia and the Pacific continue to drive global economic growth, the region's significant energy demand and emissions require urgent transformation.

"The task before us is not to slow growth down, but to reshape it — to pursue prosperity that is green, resilient and inclusive," Alisjahbana said. "In this effort, China's leadership and experience provide not only inspiration, but also practical pathways for cooperation."

She cited the Belt and Road Initiative as an example, saying it has already facilitated technology sharing, mobilized financing and strengthened institutional partnerships across the region.

Alisjahbana made the remarks at the opening session of the two-day 2025 Annual General Meeting of the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development.

Achim Steiner, former administrator of the UN Development Programme, echoed her views and spoke highly of China's Nationally Determined Contributions for 2035, which were unveiled at the UN General Assembly in September.

Inger Andersen, undersecretary-general of the UN and executive director of the UN Environment Programme, highlighted China's leading role in renewable energy development.

She said that in 2024, China's installed capacity of renewable energy accounted for 56 percent of the country's total, driving the transformation of its energy structure and supporting the goal of peaking carbon emissions in the near future.

"China is taking great actions to reshape the global energy narrative even further," Andersen said, expressing readiness to continue supporting global transformation through collaboration.

Xie Zhenhua, former special envoy on climate change for China, also underscored the importance of openness and cooperation.

"Climate change is a global challenge affecting all humanity, with countries deeply interconnected and sharing a mutual stake," Xie said. "I'm pleased that despite international uncertainties, all parties continue to cooperate in addressing this issue."

He also mentioned recent cooperation between Chinese and United States enterprises and think tanks, as well as the joint statement on climate change issued by Chinese and European leaders in July.

limenghan@chinadaily.com.cn