BEIJING: China reaffirmed its commitment to two key international agreements on Tuesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris climate accord.
This comes after newly sworn-in US President Donald Trump ordered the United States to withdraw from both agreements.
On Monday, his first day back as president, Trump signed an executive order to quit the WHO, criticising it for its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. He also announced a second withdrawal from the Paris climate accord, pushing back against global efforts to tackle climate change.
When asked about Trump’s decisions, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, Guo Jiakun, expressed concern over the US withdrawals.
He said, “China will, as always, support the WHO in fulfilling its responsibilities… and work towards building a shared community of health for humanity.” He emphasised that “the role of the WHO should only be strengthened, not weakened.”
Guo also addressed the withdrawal from the Paris climate accord, saying, “Climate change is a common challenge faced by all of humanity. No country can remain unaffected or solve the problem on its own.” He reassured that “China will work with all parties… to actively address the challenges of climate change.”
With Trump’s second presidential term now underway, he faces the task of managing relations between the US and China, the world’s two largest economies. Their relationship has been strained in recent years due to various trade and geopolitical issues.
During his first term, Trump imposed tariffs on Chinese imports, citing unfair practices. His successor, Joe Biden, has continued to apply pressure with strict regulations aimed at limiting China’s access to advanced technology.
In light of potential new tariffs under Trump, Guo expressed China’s willingness to enhance dialogue and cooperation with the US.
He said, “It is hoped that the United States will work with China to jointly promote the stable, healthy and sustainable development of China-US economic and trade relations.” He also acknowledged the existing “differences and frictions” but noted that “the common interests and space for cooperation between the two countries are huge.”
When asked about the future of TikTok, the Chinese-owned app facing potential restrictions in the US, Guo said that China hopes for a fair business environment for Chinese companies.
He also reacted to Trump’s order to reinstate Cuba on a list of state sponsors of terrorism, criticising the move as an example of America’s aggressive stance.
Guo remarked, “Within a few days, Cuba was off the so-called list, then back on it, as if it were a trifling matter,” which raised questions about Washington’s “credibility.”
