Role for Asean in Climate Change Talks
At high level climate change talks in Copenhagen this week, "much attention is given to Asia, especially China and India. But Asean is also a significant emitter if deforestation is included. Much of the region would also be severely affected by climate change. Yet, Asean has not been fully engaged and has no common position. Adaptation, energy efficiency and technology cooperation, and REDD are important issues to engage with Asean, no less than China or India," says Asia Society Bernard Schwartz Fellow Simon Tay.
On Australia’s proposal for an Asia Pacific Community: "The Australian government pushed forward its premier's suggestion for an Asia Pacific community. A large meeting with a mix of officials and experts was convened in Sydney. There is agreement that the region will face many challenges and needs closer cooperation. However, there is no appetite for new institutions and more meetings. The Australian meeting has raised concerns that a small, select number of powers would try to direct others in a top down manner, depending on power, rather than by norms of deliberation and cooperation."
Simon is currently travelling. To arrange an interview, please contact the Asia Society communications department at 212-327-9271 or [email protected].