Navigating the Climate Crossroads: A Tale of Xie Zhenhua and John Kerry’s Legacy

In the midst of the tense final hours of the Cop28 UN climate summit in December 2023, a small yet significant meeting took place, away from the official agenda. As thousands of weary delegates filled the vast and opulent venue in Dubai, a gathering in a quiet corner marked a joyous occasion. John Kerry, the US presidential envoy for climate, celebrated his 80th birthday, and his guest of honor was his 74-year-old Chinese counterpart, Xie Zhenhua.

This warm and familial moment, attended even by Xie’s eight-year-old grandson, revealed a deeper connection between these two pivotal figures in global climate negotiations. Despite rising tensions between their countries, Xie and Kerry forged a US-China collaboration on climate action that became essential to reshaping the global economy. Their personal relationship and dedication to addressing climate change defined a crucial era in international climate diplomacy.

The Importance of US-China Collaboration:

The world’s two biggest emitters, China and the US, hold immense influence in determining the planet’s future. China, with approximately 30% of global carbon dioxide emissions, and the US, with about 14%, along with their significant oil and gas production, collectively possess the power to drive meaningful climate action.

Historically, relations between the US and China have been strained, with the US viewing China as a growing rival and China asserting its own power and alliances. However, on climate change, Xie and Kerry defied these tensions, recognizing the urgent need for collaboration.

Xie and Kerry’s Contributions to Climate Diplomacy:

Xie and Kerry’s close relationship, spanning over two decades, played a vital role in shaping the global climate agenda. They spearheaded their countries’ climate engagement, turning it into an arena for cooperation rather than conflict.

Their unwavering commitment was instrumental in achieving the landmark 2015 Paris Agreement. Xie’s diplomatic skills and Kerry’s political acumen allowed them to navigate the complexities of economic rivalry and diplomatic tensions, ultimately finding common ground on climate action.

Xie, in particular, built lasting partnerships with US officials, ensuring stability and a sense of commitment throughout the negotiations. Kerry, on the other hand, brought together the Biden administration and the wider US political spectrum to engage with China on climate, despite growing skepticism and hostility towards China in Washington.

Challenges and Criticisms:

Despite their achievements, Xie and Kerry faced criticism for their respective countries’ climate actions. China’s heavy reliance on coal and its obstruction of progress at key climate summits drew criticism, while the US’s simultaneous push for green investment and increased oil and gas production was seen as contradictory.

Developing countries expressed disappointment with the US’s failure to provide vital climate finance and its resistance to establishing a “loss and damage” rescue fund, essential for addressing the devastating impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities.

The Path Ahead:

Xie and Kerry’s departure from their respective roles marks a crucial juncture in global climate diplomacy. With the looming US presidential election and the continued importance of China’s role in climate action, their successors will face significant challenges.

The next US envoy and China’s apparent successor, Liu Zhenmin, must continue the legacy of cooperation and build on the foundation laid by Xie and Kerry. They must prioritize meaningful climate action, address the needs of developing countries, and navigate the complex geopolitical landscape to achieve tangible progress.

Conclusion:

Xie Zhenhua and John Kerry’s contributions to climate diplomacy have been immense. Their personal relationship and unwavering commitment to addressing climate change helped shape the global climate agenda, leading to significant achievements such as the Paris Agreement.

As they step down from their roles, their successors must recognize the urgency of the climate crisis and work together to build on their legacy, ensuring that the world’s two largest economies continue to collaborate and lead the way towards a sustainable future.