California Governor Visits China to Discuss Climate Cooperation
California Governor Gavin Newsom is set to embark on a week-long trip to China to strengthen climate ties and promote bilateral economic development. The visit will include meetings in Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, and the provinces of Jiangsu and Guangdong.
Newsom’s office stated that the purpose of the trip is to discuss climate cooperation, encourage cultural exchanges, and boost tourism between California and China. The governor emphasized the importance of the partnership between the two largest economies in addressing the climate crisis.
During the visit, Newsom plans to sign a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Guangdong province, focusing on climate issues. He will also meet with regional leaders to discuss the transition to electric vehicles and public transport. Additional MOUs will be signed in Beijing, further advancing climate cooperation.
California’s Key Role in Climate Ties
California has played a significant role in maintaining climate ties between China and the United States, especially during the presidency of Donald Trump, who withdrew the country from the Paris Agreement. Despite this, California’s leaders continued to engage with Chinese counterparts, including climate envoy Xie Zhenhua.
In 2019, California established the California-China Climate Institute, a partnership with Beijing’s Tsinghua University, to conduct joint research on climate policies and solutions. Furthermore, Newsom signed an MOU with China’s environment ministry last year, further strengthening cooperation.
Renewed Climate Talks
Earlier this year, China and the United States resumed top-level bilateral climate talks. Climate envoy Xie and his U.S. counterpart John Kerry have met multiple times to discuss areas of agreement ahead of the COP28 climate talks in Dubai.
This visit by Governor Newsom is another step towards deepening climate cooperation between California and China. It highlights the importance of collaboration in addressing the global climate crisis and showcases the potential for economic and cultural exchanges between the two regions.
