Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China's commitment to global climate goals and green development while delivering a speech via video link at the Leaders Meeting on Climate and the Just Transition on Wednesday.
Noting that China is a firm campaigner and important contributor to the world's green development, Xi said China has built the world's largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system, established the world's largest and most complete new energy industry chain, and contributed a quarter of the world's total new green area since he announced the dual carbon goals five years ago.
"However the world may change, China will not slow down its climate actions, will not reduce its support for international cooperation, and will not cease its efforts to build a community with a shared future for mankind. China is willing to work with all parties to earnestly honor the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, do the utmost respectively and collectively, and build a clean, beautiful, and sustainable world together," said Xi.
At the virtual summit on Wednesday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva brought together 17 national leaders from major economies and climate-vulnerable countries. The goal was to accelerate global climate ambition ahead of COP30, which will be held in Brazil later this year.
The meeting was part of effort to sustain political momentum during a pivotal year for combating climate change, according to a senior UN official. This year is the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement and the upcoming deadline for countries to submit new climate plans.
Xi reaffirms China's commitment to global climate goals, green development
Xi reaffirms China's commitment to global climate goals, green development
More pet-friendly venues are emerging across Wuxi City in east China's Jiangsu Province, driven by the growing demand for businesses that welcome animals.
Among the latest additions is a customized pet-friendly bus route that takes furry companions and their owners to a lakeside park.
Furry companions are seen hopping aboard customized buses with their owners for countryside getaways.
Traditionally, pet outings require private cars or taxis. But the new bus line in the city, marking one of the first of its kind in China, has quickly gained popularity since its launch.
"This special bus line not only solves our difficult in finding a parking space, but also allows us to travel with our beloved dogs," said Gu Ye, a dog owner.
"Many pet owners face difficulties using public transport when taking their animals out. We hope this special bus service will make it easier for people and pets to travel together and help create a more inclusive public transport service," said Du Mingqi, head of the pet-friendly customized bus project at Wuxi Public Transport Group.
Beyond convenience, the tailor-made service offers a chance for pets to explore new outdoor fun and for owners to connect and share pet-raising experience.
In addition to outdoor activities, pet owners can dine and relax with their animals at themed restaurants and cafes.
"We've designed fun pet activities along the pet-friendly No.1 Ancient Scholar Trail, such as hiking with furry friends. We also regularly hold pet sports events at cafes, restaurants and scenic spots to expand the variety of pet-friendly scenarios," said Yang Jianjiang, a local official.
During this year's five-day May Day holiday on May 1-5, foot traffic at a local pet-friendly shopping complexes rose by 12 percent on average per day from the previous year, showing the strong appeal of the "pets plus cultural tourism" model.
More pet-friendly venues show up in Chinese city as pet economy booms
