China says committed to WHO, Paris climate deal after US pulls out
China has reaffirmed its commitment to international cooperation on global health and climate change after U.S. President Donald Trump, in his first day back in office, ordered withdrawals from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris Climate Accord. The executive orders marked Trump’s second time taking these actions, underscoring his defiant stance against key multinational agreements.
Speaking on Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun expressed concern over Trump’s decisions, emphasizing the importance of these global frameworks. Guo stated that China would continue to support the WHO in fulfilling its responsibilities and work toward a "shared community of health for humanity." He also called for the WHO's role to be strengthened, not weakened.
Addressing the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Climate Accord, Guo highlighted the collective nature of the climate crisis. “Climate change is a common challenge faced by all of humanity. No country can remain unaffected or solve the problem on its own,” he said. China reiterated its willingness to collaborate with other nations to tackle climate change actively.
In addition to global health and climate issues, the broader U.S.-China relationship remains a focal point. Tensions between the two economic powerhouses have persisted over trade policies and geopolitical challenges. Trump’s first term saw the imposition of tariffs on Chinese imports, which he justified by accusing Beijing of unfair trade practices. Although his successor, Joe Biden, maintained a firm stance by restricting Chinese access to high-tech chips, Trump has threatened to impose even higher tariffs during his second term.
China’s economy, still heavily reliant on exports, has shown an openness to dialogue with the U.S. despite these challenges. Guo expressed hope for improved bilateral relations, emphasizing the need to "properly manage differences and expand mutually beneficial cooperation." He also acknowledged existing "differences and frictions" but stressed the significant common interests and potential for collaboration between the two nations.
Beijing’s stance indicates a desire to stabilize relations with Washington while continuing to play an active role in addressing global challenges. As Trump begins his second term, how these two nations navigate their complex relationship will be critical to the global economic and political landscape.
|