“Xi Emphasizes Sustainable Development as the Key Solution to Addressing Current Global Challenges”
Xi Jinping, the Chinese President, asserted on Thursday that sustainable development serves as the “crucial key” to resolving prevailing global challenges. During an informal dialogue and working lunch at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting, Xi highlighted APEC’s achievements in delivering on the Putrajaya Vision 2040 and actively implementing the Bangkok Goals on Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy, contributing positively to global green and sustainable growth.
“In the current circumstances, we need to foster consensus and concentrate on tangible actions to propel the cause of global sustainable development,” he remarked. Firstly, Xi suggested accelerating the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, emphasizing the need to prioritize development globally and create a political consensus for collaborative efforts among all nations.
Xi outlined China’s Global Development Initiative (GDI) and efforts to enhance international cooperation, addressing development gaps. Secondly, he proposed charting a new course for green development by collectively promoting the transformation of energy, industrial, and transportation structures, fostering coordinated efforts in carbon and pollution reduction, green expansion, and high-quality employment.
Thirdly, Xi urged building global synergy to combat climate change, advocating for adherence to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. He emphasized the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, suggesting that countries set climate targets tailored to their national conditions, addressing the concerns of developing nations regarding financing, capacity building, and technology transfer.
Xi detailed China’s commitment to the green Belt and Road Initiative, expressing China’s intent to deepen cooperation in green infrastructure, energy, and transportation. He also pledged support for the capacity building of developing countries through a special fund for South-South cooperation on climate change.
China stands prepared to collaborate with all parties to make substantial contributions to the establishment of a global development community and a cleaner, more beautiful world, Xi concluded. The dialogue, presided over by U.S. President Joe Biden, centered on sustainability, climate, and a just energy transition.