Optimism has mounted for the upcoming Paris climate change conference, with "a powerful, ambitious and legally binding deal" expected to be reached to deal with climate change after 2020.
The Paris conference, due to begin next week, is the latest attempt by the world to reduce carbon emissions after the talks in Copenhagen in 2009 failed to deliver a deal. With frequent extreme weather and related natural disasters, expectations are high that the Paris conference will reach an agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol which expires in 2020.
Consensus is expected on some historical climate conundrums in Paris. Many countries have submitted their own "Intended Nationally Determined Contribution" (INDC) to the UNFCCC ahead of the talks.
China's INDC is to cut its carbon emissions per unit of GDP by 60-65 percent from 2005 levels by 2030, increase non-fossil fuel sources in primary energy consumption to about 20 percent and peak its carbon emissions by the same date.
For the first time, the Chinese president will attend the opening ceremony of the climate conference, among leaders of unprecedented 130-odd countries. Xi Jinping will deliver China's proposals in his keynote speech.
Xi's attendance once again shows that the world's second largest economy attaches great importance to climate change, following a string of joint climate declarations with the United States, France and Britain. Combating climate change is a requirement for China's transition to sustainable and green development and will benefit long-term economic growth.
At the talks, participants should be realistic about the different capabilities and responsibilities among developed and developing nations. The principles of equity, common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities outlined in the UNFCCC, should be emphasized.
Developed countries are expected to make more concrete action to honor their commitments to offer financing and technology to developing countries. Climate talks have always been difficult, but only courage, sincerity and commitment are required.
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