America and China Seek to Revive "Climate Diplomacy"

U.S. Special Envoy for Climate John Kerry stated that it is "essential for China and the United States to make real progress" in the four months leading up to the United Nations Climate Conference (COP28) in Dubai. This came during his meeting with his Chinese counterpart, Xie Zhenhua, on Monday in Beijing. Kerry urged China to partner with the United States to reduce methane emissions and lessen the impact of coal energy on the climate, as both sides aim to rebuild trust after climate talks were suspended last year. Xie Zhenhua indicated that climate envoys could play a role in improving U.S.-China relations. Kerry expressed hope that "over the next three days we can begin to take some significant steps that will send a message to the world about the serious intention of China and the United States to address a common threat and challenge to humanity that we have created ourselves." China has committed to beginning to reduce coal consumption, but not before 2026. Kerry's visit marks his third trip to China as the U.S. climate envoy, officially resuming high-level climate diplomacy between the two countries. He is the third U.S. official to visit Beijing in recent weeks, as both sides seek to stabilize their broader bilateral relations. The discussions were suspended last year following then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, which China views as part of its territory.