China Takes the Lead at COP30: A New Era in Global Climate Cooperation
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At the 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Brazil's Belem, China has emerged as a key player in the Global South, forging a strong alliance with India. The two countries have been working in tandem to promote climate justice and push for greater financial support from developed nations. China's prominent pavilion at COP30 has been a hub of activity, with delegates, visitors, and businesspeople flocking to network and learn about Chinese businesses. However, behind the scenes, China has been quietly leading the charge on key climate issues, including Article 9.1 of the Paris Agreement, which mandates developed nations to provide funding for climate change mitigation and adaptation in developing countries. India, as part of the Like-Minded Developing Countries (LMDCs) and China (G77+China), has been coordinating its efforts with China on key positions, including demanding predictable finance for adaptation and opposing unilateral trade measures that restrict developing countries. China's influence extends beyond the climate talks, with the country dominating the solar and wind component markets. Its share of wind turbine manufacturing capacity is at least 60%, and it is India's largest trade partner in sectors such as solar PV and batteries. COP30 President André Corrêa has praised China's role in the energy transition, citing its scale, technology, and affordable solutions as key factors in driving down the cost of clean energy. Observers believe that China is positioning itself to fill the void left by the US, which withdrew from the Paris Agreement. China's commitment to climate action is evident in President Xi Jinping's pitch to remain committed to global climate goals at a COP event in April. China may also call for the continuation of multilateral platforms, encouraging countries to engage in constructive climate negotiations. The collaboration between India and China has the potential to define Asia's decarbonization trajectory, with their expanding clean-energy trade demonstrating the importance of integration in accelerating growth and decarbonization. As COP30 continues, China's leadership in the Global South is set to play a major role in shaping the future of climate cooperation.
