BRICS countries pledge climate cooperation

BRICS countries last week released the Xiamen Declaration at the group’s ninth summit. Caijing reported that the declaration reflected the BRICS support for sustainable development. It states that the group is committed to implementing the Paris Agreement under the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. The BRICS urged developed countries to provide developing countries with financial and technological support. The declaration also stated a shared goal of promoting the efficient use of fossil fuels and the widespread development of natural gas, hydropower, and nuclear power. In addition, China is looking to further South-South cooperation at the summit by committing US$500 million to aid developing countries efforts in tackling climate change and disaster relief, among other needs.