Australia Pushes for Asia Pacific Cooperation on Climate Change

As the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit continues in Vietnam, Australia is actively seeking to engage developing member nations in addressing the pressing issue of global warming. Australian Prime Minister John Howard and Foreign Minister Alexander Downer are pushing for a variety of key initiatives, including an international carbon trading scheme, clean coal technology, and a move beyond the Kyoto Protocol. The goal is to encourage developing countries to prioritize climate change and energy security, recognizing the legitimate interests of energy-rich nations and resource-hungry countries alike.

Key Takeaways:

  • Australia is focusing on an international carbon trading scheme that balances the interests of energy-rich countries like Australia and resource-hungry nations like China.
  • Foreign Minister Alexander Downer will host a meeting with foreign ministers from select nations to discuss energy security, clean energy, and climate change.
  • The dinner aims to increase focus on climate change among developing countries, which currently prioritize economic growth over environmental concerns.
  • Developed nations, including Australia, must make a concerted effort to encourage developing countries to give greater priority to climate change.
  • The Australian government is emphasizing the need to move beyond the Kyoto Protocol and explore alternative solutions to tackle climate change.

Statistics:

  • Australia aims to promote an international carbon trading scheme that considers the legitimate interests of energy-rich countries like Australia.
  • The meeting between Foreign Minister Alexander Downer and select foreign ministers is expected to focus on energy security, clean energy, and climate change.
  • Developing countries in the APEC region are currently prioritizing economic growth over climate change.
  • Australia recognizes the need to balance the priorities of energy-rich and resource-hungry nations in addressing climate change.
  • The APEC summit is a crucial platform for Australia to engage developing member nations on climate change and energy security.

Sources:

  • "Asia Pulse - Australia Pushes for Asia Pacific Cooperation on Climate Change"
  • (AAP) cover story, 16 November 1728