EU, China partners in fight against climate change: EU Commissioner

The European Union (EU) and China are already cooperating very closely in the fight against climate change, and the two sides also share a common vision and the willingness to act now, said EU Commissioner for climate action and energy Miguel Arias Canete in a recent interview with Xinhua.

China and the EU on Monday agreed to enhance cooperation in the uphill battle against global climate change.

The move came as a joint statement on climate change was issued after visiting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with EU leaders in Belgium.

"Initiatives like carbon markets, technology exchanges or cooperation on sustainable mobility are now an essential part of EU-China relations," said the Commissioner.

"Europe has already gone through many of the problems which China is experiencing now - air pollution, environmental degradation, deforestation, urban mobility challenges...- and as a result we have an extensive experience that we can share with China," said the Commissioner, emphasizing that "we are natural partners".

When asked about the Paris climate conference held late this year, the Commissioner believed that "the prospects for a deal are very good", but also adding that "we need to make sure that we don't leave all the difficult decisions to Paris".

The transition to a low-carbon economy is a fantastic opportunity to stimulate growth and build dynamic new industries while improving the quality of life for citizens, said the Commissioner, adding that "tackling climate change can be a win-win situation for everyone if we act now and seize the opportunity".

The Commissioner also noted that "we understand that some countries may need help in their fight against climate change and making the transition to a low-carbon economy and we stand ready to support them in the future". Endit