G20 Summit: World leaders Agree on Climate Deal

#G20OsakaSummit has concluded with adoption of "G20 Osaka Leaders' Declaration"https://t.co/mFtllPICc3#G20 #G20Japan #G20OsakaSummit2019 pic.twitter.com/fivN8C56q3

— G20 Japan ?? (@g20org) June 29, 2019

Merkel stated that the US accepted the other nineteen members' determination to fight climate change, but would not be committing to the cause themselves.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe confirmed that the leaders had found common ground on climate change despite "big differences" in the members' views.

Also read: Terrorism Biggest Threat to Humanity: PM Modi at Informal BRICS Leaders' Meeting

At the G20 meeting in Buenos Aires, most countries reaffirmed their commitment to the landmark 2016 Paris Agreement on tackling climate change. They declared the accord "irreversible" and committed to its "full implementation."

The US, however, said it was committed to withdrawing from the Paris Agreement and "affirms its strong commitment to economic growth, energy access and security."

Possible goal of 'net-zero' emissions by 2050

German Chancellor Angela Merkel praised the agreement, telling reporters in Japan that "this process cannot be turned around."

Merkel added that some leaders present in Osaka have already indicated they are willing to increase their commitments to curb greenhouse gases by aiming for "net zero" emissions by 2050.

"In our view, climate change will determine the destiny of mankind, so it is imperative that our generation makes the right choices," said Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi at a news conference with his French counterpart and UN secretary- general Antonio Guterres following the climate change talks.

Also read: Despite Climate Pledges, G20 Countries Boost Subsidy for Coal-Fired Power Plants

Fair free trade policy needed

Abe said the 20 leaders at the G20 summit had also confirmed the need for free, fair and non-discriminatory trade policy.

"The global economy continues to face downside risks as trade tensions persist," Abe told a news conference. "The G20 leaders agreed on the need for member countries to spearhead strong global economic growth" while standing ready to take further action if needed, he said.

Abe added said he had told US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping that it was extremely important to engage in constructive discussion to solve their trade tensions.

Following their talks, Trump and Abe said the US and China had agreed to resume trade talks, and Washington would not place any more tariffs on Chinese exports for the time being.

This article was originally published on DW.