Will it be reborn in Glasgow? China and the United States, the world’s leading emitters of greenhouse gases, announced an unexpected agreement on Wednesday, November 10, two days before the planned end of COP26. In this “Joint Declaration on Improving Climate Action”, Beijing and Washington take over without very precise details “Take Strong Steps to Raise Aspirations by 2020”, Reaffirms their commitment to the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

The two major world powers have pledged to work in Glasgow, where hostility seems to have spread to climate diplomacy in recent months. “Desirable, balanced and inclusive outcome in mitigation (low emissions), adaptation and support” Economy for poor countries.

This agreement was lauded “An important step in the right direction” UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. “Beyond COPE, it’s important to the world.”, Franz Timmermans, Vice President of the European Commission, responded.

On Wednesday morning, after 10 days of negotiations, the British Presidency of the COP released the first draft of the Final Declaration calling for the strengthening and acceleration of all countries’ climate commitments to meet the objectives of the Paris Agreement. This text has provoked mixed reactions, especially from poorer countries, urging the richest to keep their promise of help.

The plan calls on countries “Check and Strengthen” From the 2022 national contributions that determine their short-term commitments. And promotes countries “Accelerate the withdrawal of coal and fossil fuel subsidies”. The clear reference to fossil fuels, which are responsible for most of the emissions, is unprecedented, especially in the Paris Agreement. But it promises that until the end of the final sentence, there will be intense controversy, especially in the producing countries.

On the burning issue of funding, text “Relief through Repentance” Failure of developed countries to deliver on their promise of raising $ 100 billion a year in climate aid to poor countries from 2020 onwards. The textbook is still under discussion and may change by the end of the COP, although it is scheduled for Friday but may be extended.