U.S.-China announcement significant step toward turning promise of Paris into reality

“This announcement is the latest confirmation that the world’s two largest economies and two largest emitters are committed to working together in the fight against climate change.

“U.S.-China cooperation was critical to reaching the landmark climate agreement in Paris last December — and will be equally crucial to implementing it. By announcing they will sign the Paris Agreement next month in New York, and urging other nations to follow their lead, the two countries are taking a significant step toward turning the promise of Paris into reality.

“Equally important is the support for other multilateral efforts, in particular the adoption this year of a global market-based measure to address greenhouse gas emissions from international aviation. A strong agreement at the 2016 International Civil Aviation Organization Assembly is one of the top global priorities for climate change this year — and a key part of President Obama’s legacy. Today’s renewed sign of commitment from the U.S. and China should strengthen the resolve of other countries in ICAO — and open a pathway to resolving the key question of how to share, fairly, the responsibilities for offsetting future aviation emissions. The clock is ticking, with only 190 days left until the conclusion of the ICAO Assembly in Montreal.”

• Nathaniel Keohane, Vice President, Global Climate, Environmental Defense Fund