US and China Discuss Climate and Trade Issues
Climate Talks:
The United States and China engaged in discussions on Chinese overcapacity in solar and battery manufacturing, steel production, and coal power during recent bilateral meetings on climate change. Top U.S. climate change diplomat John Podesta met with Chinese counterpart Liu Zhenmin to strategize ahead of the upcoming COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan. The talks also focused on cooperation in methane reduction and deforestation initiatives.
Trade Concerns:
The U.S. emphasized the detrimental impact of China flooding global markets with affordable solar panels and coal, undermining clean energy manufacturing in other nations. This issue has prompted solar companies to file trade petitions seeking penalties on solar components from Chinese factories in Southeast Asia. Additionally, the U.S. is contemplating imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, prompting warnings from Liu about potential trade protectionism.
Bilateral Relationship:
This meeting marked the first formal dialogue between the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitters since COP28 in Dubai. The previous envoys from both countries had fostered a positive relationship, playing pivotal roles in advancing climate agreements. The tone of the recent discussions remained cordial, signaling a continuation of collaboration between the two nations.
Future Initiatives:
The U.S. and China pledged to finalize their new national climate strategies under the Paris Agreement by February 2025. They also committed to measures aligned with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Both countries are set to host a high-level meeting on sub-national cooperation in California and a summit on methane and non-CO2 gases at COP29.
