Gov. Newsom of California plans climate collaboration trip to China.
California Governor Gavin Newsom to Strengthen Climate Partnership with China
Following a visit from a delegation of Chinese officials last month, California Governor Gavin Newsom is set to embark on a trip to China in October to further enhance their climate partnership. In an interview with Politico on September 12, Newsom emphasized the importance of addressing climate change and working with international partners.
“We get it in the state of California, but we’re responsible now to not just understand the impacts, but also to address the solutions,” Mr. Newsom said in the interview. “That’s why I’ll be going to China in a few weeks. To build on the work we’ve done in China on climate, and I don’t think there’s anything more essential.”
Newsom highlighted the urgency of the issue, stating that it poses a threat to humanity. He expressed his belief that maintaining a strong climate relationship with China is crucial for the fate and future of the planet.
“The importance, the imperative of maintaining a relationship on climate with China is about the fate and future of the planet,” Mr. Newsom said in the interview. “It’s too important. It’s another example where California needs to lead, and I think that steady leadership matters.”
Newsom also acknowledged the historical significance of California’s legislation in combating climate change, such as the Air Resources Act signed by Ronald Reagan in 1967. He emphasized the need for collaboration with other partners, both within the United States and globally.
“We forged a bipartisan alliance of governors around the nation,” Mr. Newsom said. “And we’re working with sub-nationals around the globe to sign agreements, so that we could be the tent pole, so that we can address the world’s anxiety.”
This upcoming trip builds upon the progress made by former Governor Jerry Brown, who established similar agreements with local and regional governments in 2015. Brown’s efforts included a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2017 to discuss climate partnerships after the United States withdrew from the Paris Climate Accords.
During a ceremony on August 3, officials from California and China’s Hainan Province signed a Memorandum of Understanding to reduce carbon emissions and regulate greenhouse gases. Vice Governor Chen Huaiyu expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that both parties share a commitment to combatting the global climate crisis.
Regional agreements already exist between California and Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia, as well as international memorandums with Canada, New Zealand, and Japan. Newsom’s trip aims to further strengthen these collaborations and establish California as a leader in climate solutions.
While it remains uncertain whether Newsom will meet with Chinese President Xi during his visit, he emphasized the importance of subnational work in the absence of global leadership. He also confirmed coordination with the White House regarding the trip.
Newsom highlighted the need for open dialogue and productive communication with China, emphasizing that “divorce is not an option.” The trip aligns with recent visits by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and special presidential envoy for climate John Kerry, demonstrating the shared commitment to addressing climate change.
As California continues to take bold steps in combating climate change, Newsom’s visit to China represents a significant opportunity to strengthen international partnerships and drive global climate action forward.
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