China urged to lead in global climate efforts

A former Chinese central bank official says China should take a stronger role in climate leadership. He believes this is important, especially as the United States has stepped back from its commitments. Ma Jun, who founded the Institute of Finance and Sustainability in Beijing, emphasizes that China's approach to climate policy must be focused on mutual benefits. He argues that while China's economy is large enough to lead, it should not just seek short-term gains but instead focus on shared interests and long-term solutions. Ma proposed a green free-trade initiative. This plan would lower tariffs and other barriers on environmentally friendly goods and services. According to early research from Ma's team, such an initiative could speed up the green transition among countries in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). It could also lead to economic benefits, including GDP growth, increased exports, and more jobs.