The Foreign Ministry’s press conference on March 3, 2025, covered China’s contributions to climate change governance at the IPCC, its partnerships with developing nations for green initiatives, and the response to new U.S. tariffs. China reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful international cooperation and highlighted its stance on the Ukraine crisis and COVID-19 origins, urging dialogue over conflict.
On March 1, the 62nd Session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) concluded in Hangzhou, marking the first time China hosted such a session. The session saw China contributing to the outlines of three Working Group contributions relevant to the Seventh Assessment Report, which will provide a scientific framework for addressing climate change moving forward. This demonstrates China’s commitment to enhancing global climate governance through collaboration with the scientific community.
China continues to promote a green transition while supporting Global South nations. The country has shared meteorological early warning data with 132 countries and partnered with nations like Pakistan and Ethiopia to develop early warning systems. China has introduced green innovations to over 100 developing countries to reduce the costs of emission reduction and improve global production capacity through initiatives such as low-carbon demonstration zones, wind and solar power installations, and energy-efficient projects across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
In response to questions regarding the expected new U.S. tariffs and countermeasures involving American agricultural products, Lin Jian reaffirmed China’s opposition to the tariff hikes that threaten its economic interests, expressing a commitment to safeguarding legitimate rights.
Regarding the recent cooperation agreement between China and Pakistan for a Pakistani astronaut’s journey to the Chinese space station, Lin Jian expressed optimism for successful collaboration in space exploration, emphasizing China’s commitment to shared opportunities in technology and peaceful use of outer space.
On the matter of the Ukraine crisis, Lin Jian stated that China was willing to play a constructive role in attaining a political settlement, reiterating that it did not initiate the crisis. China aims for a sustainable resolution that acknowledges the concerns of all parties involved.
Concerning the repatriation of 40 Chinese nationals from Thailand, Lin Jian insisted that the process adhered to both national laws and international norms, ensuring the protection of the repatriated individuals’ rights. He stressed the commitment of the Chinese government to uphold human rights and urged international figures to respect the sovereignty of nations.
In reaction to remarks made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Lin Jian dismissed them as steeped in outdated perspectives and false accusations, condemning the U.S. approach to the Taiwan issue. He emphasized that Taiwan remains an inalienable part of China and criticized U.S. tactics of politicizing trade and economic relations through tariffs under the pretext of unrelated issues.
On the origins of COVID-19, Lin Jian asserted that scientific conclusions indicate the lab leak theory is “extremely unlikely.” He invited a broader perspective on investigating the origins of the virus while urging the U.S. to cease unsubstantiated accusations against China.
Lastly, regarding the U.S. encouragement of Mexico and Canada to align tariffs with those imposed on China, Lin Jian reiterated that trade wars yield no winners and advocated for respecting WTO principles and engaging in dialogue to resolve disputes. Countries should unite against unilateralism and trade protectionism, promoting cooperative solutions instead.
In summary, the Foreign Ministry’s press conference highlighted China’s proactive role in climate governance, cooperation with Global South nations, and a commitment to peaceful international relations. Lin Jian reiterated China’s positions on various global issues, including tariffs, space cooperation, the Ukraine crisis, human rights, COVID-19 origins, and trade relations with the U.S. The emphasis on mutual respect and cooperation underscores China’s overarching foreign policy objectives.
Original Source: www.fmprc.gov.cn
