UK and China will 'lead world' on environmental issues
Saturday, 19 Jan 2008 20:07
Gordon Brown unveils fresh environmental commitment between UK and China
Gordon Brown says a renewed partnership between the UK and China will see the two countries "lead the world" on eco-towns and sustainable urban development.
Speaking during an official visit to China, his first since becoming prime minister, Mr Brown pledged £50 million towards Beijing's energy efficiency strategies.
The prime minister has already used his trip to champion business links between Britain and China, which has faced international criticism of its alleged widespread abuse of human rights and violation of environmental protocols.
But speaking at a press conference in Shanghai, Mr Brown said China was committed to the existing EU-China near-zero emissions coal programme.
"Two countries will lead the world in the creation of eco-cities and eco-towns - that is China and Britain," the prime minister told reporters following a visit to Dongtan, a UK-funded eco-city project that will use only renewable energy sources when completed.
"Over the next few years the development of this new higher level of environmental cooperation will have the support of the British government and I know from my discussions earlier today and yesterday the support of the Chinese government."
Mr Brown also unveiled plans to build a coal-fired power station in China using carbon capture and storage techniques by 2020, as well as a promise to share UK technology on cleaner coal.
The prime minister is due to fly to India tomorrow when his visit to China concludes.