Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the significance of sustainable development as a “golden key” to addressing global challenges during an informal dialogue at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting. Xi highlighted APEC’s contributions to global green and sustainable growth through initiatives like the Putrajaya Vision 2040 and the Bangkok Goals on Bio-Circular-Green Economy.
Xi proposed a threefold approach to advance global sustainable development. First, he called for accelerating the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, emphasizing the need to prioritize development and foster international cooperation. China has introduced the Global Development Initiative (GDI) to promote synergy among nations and address development disparities.
Second, Xi advocated for a transformative path toward green development. He urged countries to collaborate on upgrading energy, industrial, and transportation structures, emphasizing coordinated efforts for carbon and pollution reduction. The goal is to achieve sustainable growth while addressing the fair transformation of the labor force and promoting high-quality employment.
Third, Xi underscored the importance of global cooperation to tackle climate change. He called for upholding the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and stressed the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. Xi urged countries to formulate climate targets aligned with national conditions, address concerns of developing nations regarding financing and technology transfer, and fully implement the Paris Agreement.
Xi highlighted China’s commitment to the new development concept, emphasizing green and low-carbon transformations. He pledged to deepen cooperation in green infrastructure, energy, and transportation as part of the green Belt and Road Initiative. China also expressed readiness to collaborate with other nations to build a global development community and contribute to a clean and beautiful world.
The dialogue, chaired by U.S. President Joe Biden, focused on sustainability, climate, and just energy transition, reflecting the shared commitment of nations to address pressing global challenges.
