Successful Climate Challenge Event Strengthens China-EU Relations in Paris

The Climate Challenge (Hainan Baoting) Europe Outreach Event was successfully held in Paris on June 26, 2025. This event marked two significant milestones: the 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement. The event aimed to reinforce cooperation between China and Europe towards a greener and low-carbon future.

Organized jointly by the Baoting Li and Miao Autonomous County of Hainan Province and the Ningyuan Institute of Climate and Sustainable Development, this significant gathering drew participation from over 100 representatives of more than 80 institutions across China and Europe. The purpose of the event was not only to celebrate these historic milestones but also to discuss and strategize future collaborations aimed at climate resilience and sustainability.

Keynote Speeches and Insights

Mr. Xie Zhenhua, China's first Special Envoy for Climate Change, delivered a special video address emphasizing the urgency and importance of enhancing climate actions. He advocated for synergies between climate initiatives, health industries, and marine conservation efforts. Mr. Zhenhua underlined the need for collaboration at every level—national, local, and international.

On the European side, Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation and former French Climate Change Ambassador, also provided a video message. She commended the efforts of the Baoting Innovation Zone, highlighting it as an exemplary model of international collaboration dedicated to achieving low-carbon objectives. Tubiana mentioned Baoting County's ambitious goal of attaining carbon neutrality by 2040, expressing hope that this initiative could inspire other regions to pursue similar ambitions.

Collaborative Projects and Innovations

During the event, several strategic collaborations aimed at fostering a low-carbon economy were formed. Six key cooperation projects between China and Europe were signed. These initiatives were geared towards identifying innovative climate solutions across critical sectors: proactive health, sustainable architecture, sustainable lifestyles, and sustainable agriculture.

The projects presented during the rounds of presentations included:
1. A low-carbon health and wellness center.
2. Innovative materials for a sustainable world.
3. Integrated energy innovations from Copenhagen.
4. Strategies for promoting longer, healthier lives.

These projects were received positively, indicating a strong commitment to sustainable development and showcasing innovative thought processes emerging from China-EU collaboration in combating climate change.

A Platform for Future Cooperation

The Climate Challenge event served as a significant platform for future engagements. Numerous representatives from European governmental agencies, industry associations, and private enterprises shared insights and best practices to support the development of the Baoting Innovation Zone. Clémence Xu, a regional advisor from Hauts-de-France, discussed the successes and prospects of Sino-French collaborations, while Olivier Dessajan from the French Health Alliance shared strategies to address an aging population's needs. Daniel Klier from South Pole Group discussed building a sustainable future through finance, and Yves-Jean Bignon from Vichy City highlighted experiences related to well-being economies.

These exchanges provided vital contributions to the Baoting Innovation Zone's development efforts, aimed at creating scalable, replicable green development models.

Looking Ahead

The successful execution of the Climate Challenge (Hainan Baoting) Europe Outreach Event signifies a pivotal step forward in China-Europe cooperation on green and low-carbon initiatives. By establishing robust foundations for collaboration across various sectors, this initiative not only targets climate change but also encourages a broader engagement among institutions and projects willing to join efforts for sustainable development.

As the world faces increasing climate challenges, the partnerships forged during this event will play a crucial role in building a greener, low-emission future, collectively driving forward on the path of sustainability. Together, China and Europe can truly shape a resilient ecological and economic landscape for the coming generations.