The Daily Planet #107: The China Shock, Part 8

A mercurial American president who treats Europe with distrust, if not outright enmity is making Europe closer to China when it comes to climate action.

Europe and China share a strong interest in promoting a global green transition, especially in emerging and developing countries. This cooperation is crucial because these countries are responsible for a large and growing share of greenhouse gas emissions. If their economic growth continues to rely on fossil fuels, it will cause severe climate damage worldwide. Helping these nations develop renewable energy is not only better for the planet but also more cost-effective in the long run.

The United States, particularly under Donald Trump’s leadership, has taken steps that undermine global climate efforts. This includes withdrawing from the Paris Agreement and blocking international deals to reduce emissions. Such actions have weakened global climate cooperation and pushed Europe to reconsider its alliances. While Europe has traditionally aligned with the US, recent US policies and unpredictability have made Europe explore alternative partnerships.

Despite existing trade tensions and political differences, Europe and China have common ground in fighting climate change. China is the world’s largest emitter but also a leader in clean technology manufacturing. A green partnership between Europe and China could accelerate the global energy transition and benefit both sides, as well as the planet.

However, for this partnership to work, several challenges must be addressed. Trade frictions need careful management, with clear agreements on market access and technology sharing. More importantly, geopolitical issues must be resolved. Europe and China have different views on the Ukraine conflict, and China would need to adopt a neutral stance, ending support for Russian aggression. In return, Europe would assert more strategic independence from the US.

If these conditions are met, today's #DailyPlanet claims that Europe and China could build a rules-based green alliance that defends the global commons and secures a sustainable future for all.

The Case for a European-Chinese Green Pact

Jean Pisani-Ferry & Beatrice Weder di Mauro think both sides have much to gain from pursuing closer economic ties through clean energy and technology.