Xi Jinping Delivers Important Speech at the Climate Ambition Summit
Release date:
2020-12-12
Xinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 12
On the 12th, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered an important video speech titled "Carrying Forward the Past and Ushering in a New Journey for Global Climate Action" at the Climate Ambition Summit, announcing a series of new initiatives reflecting China's nationally determined contributions.
(Xinhua News Agency reporter Ju Peng photo)
The full text is as follows:
Carrying forward the past and forging ahead, we embark on a new global journey to tackle climate change.
——Speech at the Climate Ambition Summit
(December 12, 2020, Beijing)
President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping
Dear Secretary-General Mr. Guterres,
Dear Colleagues:
I'm delighted to attend today's Climate Ambition Summit. Five years ago, leaders from around the world, driven by their utmost political resolve and wisdom, pushed forward the landmark Paris Agreement on climate change. Over the past five years, the Paris Agreement has entered its implementation phase, garnering widespread support and active participation from the international community. Today, as the global landscape accelerates its evolution, the COVID-19 pandemic has sparked profound reflections on the relationship between humanity and nature—making the future of global climate governance even more pressing. In this context, I would like to propose three initiatives.
First, let us unite as one and forge a new chapter of climate governance based on win-win cooperation. In the face of climate change challenges, humanity shares a common destiny—there is no viable path for unilateralism. Only by upholding multilateralism, fostering unity, and promoting collaboration can we achieve mutual benefits and prosperity, ultimately benefiting people across nations. China welcomes all countries to support the Paris Agreement and make greater contributions to tackling climate change.
Second, boost ambition and establish a new climate governance system that allows everyone to contribute according to their capabilities. Countries should adhere to the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, maximizing their actions based on national conditions and respective capacities. At the same time, developed nations must substantially step up their support—providing financial resources, technology transfer, and capacity-building assistance—to developing countries.
Third, strengthen confidence and uphold the new approach of green recovery in climate governance. Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets. We must vigorously promote a green and low-carbon production and lifestyle, seizing opportunities and driving forces for development from the pursuit of sustainable growth.
China has made significant contributions to achieving the Paris Agreement on climate change and is also an active implementer of the accord. This year In September, I announced that China will strengthen its Nationally Determined Contributions by implementing more robust policies and measures, aiming to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and striving to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
Here, I would like to further announce that by 2030, China's carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP will decrease by more than 65% compared to 2005 levels, non-fossil energy will account for around 25% of primary energy consumption, forest stock volume will increase by 6 billion cubic meters from 2005 levels, and the total installed capacity of wind and solar power will reach over 1.2 billion kilowatts.
China has always valued trustworthiness and keeping promises. Guided by a new development philosophy, we will drive high-quality growth while fostering a comprehensive green transformation of our economy and society. We will steadily implement these goals, contributing even more significantly to the global effort in tackling climate change.
Dear colleagues!
“Heaven does not speak, yet the four seasons move on; Earth remains silent, yet countless万物 thrive.” The Earth is humanity’s shared and only home. Let us carry forward the past while forging ahead together, working hand in hand to ensure the steady and lasting implementation of the Paris Agreement—and together, let’s embark on a new journey toward global action against climate change!
Thank you, everyone.
Translated from Xinhua News Agency
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