Xi says climate summit a 'starting point'

President Xi Jinping is seen on a giant screen as he delivers a speech for the opening day of the World Climate Change Conference 2015 (COP21) at Le Bourget, near Paris, France, November 30, 2015.[Photo/Xinhua]

Zhang Xiaohua, senior program officer for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, said Xi's speech showed the sense of responsibility of a big emerging economy.

"Solidarity was mentioned in President Xi's speech and in other leaders' speeches, and only integrated cooperation can effectively address climate change and achieve win-win results," said Zhang.

Jake Schmidt, director of the international program at the Natural Resources Defense Council, said China has made strong financial commitments to developing countries.

"As President Xi said, it is a 'win-win' because helping developing countries with low carbon growth will reduce global greenhouse gases while ensuring that economic growth does not sacrifice clean air and water," he said.

Additionally, Xi said efforts from businesses and NGOs are also important for addressing climate change and that improving public awareness is important.

Huang Haoming, vice chairman and executive director of the Beijing-based China Association for NGO Cooperation, said he was excited about Xi's message, which he said focused on action, common efforts of global players and the participation of every sector of society.

"I am encouraged by his visions. President Xi pointed out in his speech that the climate fight is not only the responsibility of the government. The participation of the NGO and business sectors is essential in achieving success in fighting climate change," Huang said in Paris.

"Most important, as President Xi said, action is crucial. It is very important to materialize the goals once we set targets," he said.

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