China Responds to Trump’s Decisions: Support for Climate and Health, Criticism of U.S. Retreat
China has voiced strong opposition to the actions of U.S. President Donald Trump at the start of his second term, including his controversial decisions to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris Climate Agreement. Beijing views these steps as threats to international cooperation and has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting global organizations and agreements.
Criticism of the WHO Withdrawal
Commenting on the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that the organization’s role should be “strengthened, not weakened.” He added that China would continue supporting the WHO to achieve its mission of promoting global health.
Climate: A Call for Global Cooperation
Regarding the U.S. exit from the Paris Climate Agreement, Guo described climate change as a “shared challenge for all humanity,” emphasizing that international collaboration is the only way to address this global issue. These remarks echo China’s consistent stance during Trump’s first term, as Beijing upheld the Paris Agreement and maintained its long-term climate goals.
China Capitalizing on U.S. Retreat
Analysts believe China aims to leverage the U.S. retreat from international agreements and organizations to position itself as a responsible global actor. According to Marc Julienne, Director of the Asia Program at the French Institute of International Relations (IFRI), Beijing is striving to present itself as a reliable and stable force in global relations, particularly amid escalating tensions with Washington.
Looming Trade Tensions
Beyond global issues, China anticipates renewed trade tensions with the U.S., as Trump has reiterated his intent to increase tariffs on Chinese imports. While the Biden administration maintained some of these tariffs, China has signaled its willingness to engage in dialogue to ease these disputes. Guo expressed China’s readiness to enhance cooperation with the U.S. to manage differences and expand mutual collaboration.
Condemnation of Cuba Blacklisting
In a related matter, China strongly condemned Trump’s decision to reinstate Cuba on the list of state sponsors of terrorism, calling it a threat to international stability. The Biden administration had previously removed Cuba from this list in an effort to normalize relations with Havana,
