Participants in the leaders' session of the 2021 P4G Seoul Summit on May 30 stressed global cooperation for inclusive green recovery. (Screen capture from P4G's website)

By Kim Minji

Participants at the leaders' session of the 2021 P4G Seoul Summit have emphasized global cooperation for inclusive green recovery.

At the online event on May 30, about 50 heads of state and high-ranking officials gave pre-recorded speeches including Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Prime Minister Kim said, "As the host of the 2021 Summit, Korea will spare no effort to help developing countries in delivering on an inclusive green recovery and strengthen the international solidarity to achieve carbon neutrality."

Prime Minister Johnson said, "We have to do all this because even the most committed government cannot bring about a green industrial revolution on its own," stressing the importance of international cooperation.

Chancellor Merkel said, "Even though we are working very hard to reach our national target of climate neutrality as early as 2045, one thing we know is this: A sustainable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is only possible with a global approach."

"Germany will therefore adhere to its pledge regarding international climate financing."

President Macron added, "Africa cannot be caught in the trap of the fossil economy when the rest of the world has moved into the era of the decarbonized economy," adding, "It must find the means to finance this transition, with the large-scale deployment of renewable energies."

The three themes for the session were green recovery, carbon neutrality and public-private partnership.

kimmj7725@korea.kr