
China, India Step Back from COP33: What's at Stake for Asia's Climate Fight
What Happened?
China has ruled out hosting COP33 after India's withdrawal in April, raising concerns about leadership in upcoming climate negotiations. Both countries are major greenhouse gas emitters.
Key points
- China and India are among the world's three largest greenhouse gas emitters.
- India withdrew its offer to host COP33 in April 2026 without stating a reason.
- China considered hosting but never formally confirmed a bid.
- COP33 is scheduled for November 6-17, 2028, and will include a global stocktake under the Paris Agreement.
- Potential hosts now include South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, and Uzbekistan.
Key insights
- The absence of major emitters like China and India may weaken the focus on climate finance for vulnerable nations.
- A major power hosting COP33 could have amplified calls for faster emissions reductions.
- The leadership vacuum may lead to less effective negotiations on global climate commitments.
Why it matters
The withdrawals of China and India could hinder regional climate leadership and negotiations crucial for vulnerable Pacific island nations.
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Source
India Today


