Two-Pager: A Matter of Principle: China's Developing Country Status in International Climate Negotiations
Disclaimer: This two-pager has been prepared by the CKN Secretariat and should not be considered the work of the individuals listed as authors of the report.
Key takeaways:
- China is both a partner and rival of the EU in climate diplomacy. Shared interests in energy transition coexist with growing political and economic tensions.
- Developing country status is a matter of principle for China. It reflects identity and positioning, not just access to benefits.
- This creates a negotiation deadlock. The EU sees China as a superpower, while China aligns with the Global South.
- European frustration is increasing, but cooperation is still essential. Climate change remains a key area where both sides must work together.
- The challenge is strategic, not moral. The EU should focus on pragmatic ways to manage the disagreement rather than resolve it outright.
China Knowledge Network
The Dutch China Knowledge Network (CKN) is a network established to involve China experts and disseminate knowledge within the government of the Netherlands and beyond.Our key task is to connect various angles of research and events to better understand China’s motives, policies and vision to develop more effective policies and better advise social partners. The secretariat of the knowledge network has been assigned to think tank Clingendael together with LeidenAsiaCentre. They will function primarily as ‘knowledge brokers’, matching the supply and demand of knowledge.
Clingendael Institute
Clingendael is an independent think tank and a diplomatic academy, based in The Hague - City of Peace and Justice. We aim to contribute to a secure, sustainable and just world through our analyses, training and public debate. We work with partners across public and private sectors, including policymakers, members of the armed forces, diplomats, politicians and business executives.
