China will not slow its pace in its response to climate change no matter how the international situation changes, said Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun at a regular briefing in Beijing on Thursday.
Commenting on the advisory opinion on the legal obligations of states concerning climate change delivered by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on Wednesday, Guo said it carries positive significance to maintaining and promoting international climate cooperation.
"We have noted that the ICJ's advisory opinion pointed out that the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) system is the principal legal instruments regulating the international response to the global problem of climate change and confirmed that the principle of common but differentiated responsibility, the principle of sustainable development and the principle of equity are applicable as guiding principles for the interpretation and application of relevant international law. It stressed that developed countries should take the lead in combating climate change and that countries have the obligation to strengthen international cooperation. The advisory opinion reflects the long-standing stance and proposition of developing countries, including China. It is of positive significance to maintaining and advancing international climate cooperation," said Guo.
"China took an active part in this advisory opinion. As the biggest major developing country, China has been a staunch doer in and important contributor to green development. China is actively and prudently working towards its goals on carbon peak and carbon neutrality. We will make the world's biggest cut in carbon emission intensity and move from carbon peak to carbon neutrality in the shortest time frame ever seen in history. In the meantime, China's quality and low-cost clean energy technologies and products have significantly cut the costs for global green and low-carbon transition. China has also provided as much assistance as we can to fellow developing countries through the channel of South-South cooperation," he said.
"No matter how the world may change, China will not slow down its climate actions, will not reduce its support for international cooperation, and will not cease its efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind. China stands ready to work with all parties to fully implement the UNFCCC, honor the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and foster a fair and equitable system of global climate governance for win-win cooperation," said the spokesman.
China not to slow down climate actions: FM spokesman
