China, France launch report on climate cooperation

The Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies and The Bridge Tank of France release a report on climate cooperation within the framework of the COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Nov. 14, 2024. [Photo/CICG] 

The Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies (ACCWS) of China International Communications Group and The Bridge Tank of France released a report Thursday on climate cooperation and sustainable development between China and France within the framework of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan. 

A dialogue on China-Europe climate and sustainable development cooperation was held alongside the report launch, attracting government officials, experts, scholars, business representatives, and young individuals from both China and Europe.

The report analyzes opportunities for strengthening China-France cooperation in combating climate change and advancing sustainable development. It underscores the importance of a proactive and results-oriented approach, with a particular emphasis on technological innovation and economic cooperation to achieve the targets of the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

According to the report, one key area for China-France climate cooperation is hydrogen power. China and France are actively advancing the research, development, and application of hydrogen energy technology, formulating national strategies that cover various aspects, from technological innovation to policy coordination. By deepening cooperation, both sides can reduce hydrogen production costs and promote the large-scale application of hydrogen energy technology, the report said.  

The report underscores the role of blended climate finance in green transformation, noting that countries can bridge the funding gap for adaptation projects through blended finance, thus helping to achieve the SDGs. 

The report also notes that China and France are actively exploring innovative models of cooperation to jointly promote global biodiversity conservation. By supporting countries in the Global South, the two nations are advancing broader global climate policy dialogues, making remarkable efforts toward global sustainable development, the report said.

At the event, participants highly praised the value and significance of the report and exchanged views on strengthening China-Europe cooperation in the fields of climate and sustainable development. They agreed that both sides should further enhance policy dialogue and practical collaboration. They said that by sharing experiences, exchanging technologies, and optimizing financing mechanisms, China and Europe can address climate change challenges together and jointly advance the achievement of SDGs.