HONG KONG (AP) — During his week-long trip to China, the Governor of California emphasized that his state will remain a committed partner in tackling climate issues, irrespective of the outcome of the upcoming U.S. presidential election.
Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, visited China against the backdrop of strained U.S.-Chinese relations due to trade disputes, support for Taiwan, and human rights concerns. As a testament to California’s global leadership on climate change, Newsom kickstarted his visit with a climate-themed discussion at The University of Hong Kong.
In his address, Newsom assured the audience that they could rely on California, dispelling doubts about the United States’ reliability as an ally. He declared, “I want you to know, regardless of what happens nationally, sub-nationally, you have a partner in the state of California.”
Climate change remains an area where collaboration between the two countries is seen as both possible and necessary. They have fully re-engaged in preparation for the upcoming U.N. climate change conference, set to commence on November 30 in Dubai.
Newsom acknowledged the longstanding partnership between China and the U.S. on climate change and expressed his intention to deepen that alliance.
However, Newsom’s trip to China has raised concerns among around 60 advocacy groups and non-governmental organizations. These organizations expressed their disappointment in a joint statement, criticizing the governor for neglecting critical human rights issues.
When questioned about the notion that climate progress with China requires ignoring human rights concerns, Newsom refuted the tradeoff, stating, “we can do many things at once.”
After concluding his visit to Hong Kong, Newsom’s itinerary includes stops in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, and Jiangsu. He will observe the operations of an all-electric bus fleet, tour an offshore wind facility, and visit Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory. Additionally, he will collaborate with leaders from different Chinese provinces to establish mutual commitments towards various climate goals.
Newsom also aims to foster stronger cultural ties, combat xenophobia, and bolster economic development and tourism.
Governors of California, given the state’s colossal economy, have a long history of collaborating with China on climate-related matters. Previous California governors, both Democrat (Jerry Brown) and Republican (Arnold Schwarzenegger), have visited China to exchange knowledge on reducing air pollution and emissions. Jerry Brown has furthered this collaboration by founding the California-China Climate Institute at the University of California, Berkeley.
