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Who is Liu Zhenmin, new climate diplomat to lead at COP29

As part of efforts to resume bilateral talks on climate cooperation, former deputy foreign minister of China, Liu Zhenmin

By Ground report 17 Feb 2024

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Who is Liu Zhenmin, new climate diplomats to lead at COP29

Following the launch of the 'Working Group on Enhancing Climate Action in the 2020s' by the United States and China in January, China's announcement of a new climate envoy has drawn attention. As part of efforts to resume bilateral talks on climate cooperation, former deputy foreign minister of China, Liu Zhenmin, is set to succeed Xie Zhenhua in this crucial role.

Co-chaired by US climate envoy John Kerry, the virtual meeting marked the retirement of Xie Zhenhua and highlighted China's commitment to addressing climate challenges. This development underscores China's dedication to enhancing global climate action and cooperation.

The November US election results this year could make John Podesta the face of the American delegation at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan. However, if Donald Trump (a vocal climate denier) and Republican candidate, wins, the US's participation in climate conferences remains uncertain. This uncertainty stems from the fact that the last time he was President, he actively withdrew the US from the Paris Agreement.

John Podesta and Liu Zhenmin have worked closely with their senior officials. These officials have played key roles in bridging the gap between China and US in the year leading up to the Paris Agreement, exhibiting a type of cooperation much needed as the world rapidly moves closer to 2050. Maintaining good relations between the two countries is key to ensuring that the upcoming negotiations proceed relatively smoothly.

Who is Liu Zhenmin?

Liu Zhenmin, born in August 1955 in Shanxi Province, China, is a distinguished diplomat and public servant renowned for his extensive contributions to global diplomacy and sustainable development.

A graduate of the Law School of Peking University, Liu Zhenmin holds a Master of Laws degree, reflecting his academic prowess and intellectual rigor. Married and deeply committed to serving humanity, Liu Zhenmin continues to inspire and lead with unwavering dedication, leaving an indelible mark on the world stage.

Liu Zhenmin is a Chinese official who works for the United Nations (UN). He is in charge of the UN’s work on economic and social issues, such as poverty, health, education, and the environment. He started working for the UN in 2017. Before that, he worked for the Chinese government for many years.

Experienced diplomat advancing global cooperation

He was also a diplomat, which means he represented China in other countries and organizations. He has a lot of experience and knowledge on many topics, such as climate change, sustainable development, and international law.

Liu Zhenmin has done many important things in his career. He has worked with different countries and groups to solve problems and make the world a better place. He has helped to make agreements on how to deal with climate change, which is a big threat to the planet.

Liu has also worked on other projects to protect the environment, such as Antarctica and the oceans. He has always supported sustainable development, which means meeting the needs of people today without harming the future.

In 2017, Liu Zhenmin became the Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs at the UN. This is a very important job, because he is responsible for helping the UN achieve its goals for sustainable development. He leads and supports many meetings and activities where countries and groups work together to improve the economic and social conditions of people around the world.