President Xi Jinping pledged Thursday that China will start phasing down coal consumption during the 2026-2030 period to cut its greenhouse gas emissions, in a speech at the online climate change summit hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden.
Xi also expressed his willingness to work with the United States to tackle climate change, reiterating that his Communist-led government will aim to make China carbon neutral by 2060.
His remarks indicated his eagerness to find a clue on how to improve deteriorating relations with Washington by joining hands in the environment field, as the world's two major powers have been at odds over issues including Beijing's alleged human rights abuses.
Related coverage:
Climate summit begins with more ambitious emissions target pledges
Japan raises 2030 emissions reduction target to 46%
China Xi to join online climate summit hosted by Biden amid tensions
