EU officials warn that a new exit from the Paris Agreement by the US could severely hinder global climate initiatives. EU climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra stressed the importance of maintaining international cooperation to address climate change, while the EU prepares its plans to be presented at the upcoming UN climate summit.
In light of the possibility of President-elect Donald Trump’s withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, EU climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra has expressed grave concerns regarding global climate change initiatives. He indicated that should the United States, the world’s second-largest polluter, exit the accord again, international climate diplomacy would suffer significantly. The commissioner emphasized the necessity for continued collective efforts to combat climate change, reflecting the shared nature of the crisis across nations. Furthermore, he highlighted the EU’s commitment to engage constructively with the incoming US administration, aiming to maintain collaboration on climate-related issues while noting potential challenges presented by differing political cycles. The EU is working towards finalizing its climate plans by 2035, in line with commitments made at the UN Climate Summit scheduled for November 2025 in Belem, Brazil.
The Paris Agreement serves as a critical framework for global climate negotiations, with nearly 200 countries committed to reducing emissions and addressing the impacts of climate change. The agreement has historically relied on cooperation from major economies, particularly the United States and China, the two foremost contributors to global carbon emissions. Under previous administrations, the US has played a proactive role in these negotiations. However, the impending return of former President Trump raises uncertainties about future US engagement in international climate commitments, potentially reshaping the diplomatic landscape around climate action.
In summary, the potential withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement poses a significant threat to international climate efforts, according to EU officials. The EU aims to maintain its leadership role in climate diplomacy by engaging with the new US administration while also preparing an ambitious climate plan for 2035. It remains essential for global cooperation to confront the indiscriminate challenge of climate change, which transcends national boundaries and requires collective resolve.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
