During the COP28 climate discussions, China acknowledged advancements in addressing the ongoing fossil fuel debate, highlighting its role as a major oil consumer advocating for a universally agreeable solution.
China’s climate envoy, Xie Zhenhua, expressed optimism to reporters in Dubai about making further progress shortly.
He stressed the urgency of resolving the issue to ensure the success of COP28. The summit’s negotiations have centered on reducing global oil, gas, and coal production to combat escalating climate change.
However, OPEC and its key member, Saudi Arabia, have opposed this, citing economic concerns. Xie mentioned China’s active involvement in finding a consensus.
He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to develop a strategy that is both comprehensive and satisfactory to all involved.
Last month, China and the United States, the top two contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, jointly advocated for the growth of renewable energy.
On his part, US climate envoy John Kerry criticized some US oil producers for not doing enough to combat global warming and singled out Chevron Corp. for particular scrutiny.
“We have no real evidence that they and a lot of others are doing what every company needs to do,” Kerry said at COP28 in Dubai. Oil and gas companies “ought to be leading the charge.”
