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Canada's historic decision to withdraw from the Kyoto Protocol has provoked heavy criticism from China, with Beijing saying the move went against international efforts to combat climate change.
Canada on Monday became the first country to formally withdraw from the protocol, saying the pact on cutting carbon emissions was preventing the world from effectively tackling climate change.The move is "against the efforts of the international community and is regrettable," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Liu Weimin told a regular media briefing.
"We hope Canada will face up to its responsibilities and obligations, honour its commitments and actively participate in relevant international cooperation against climate change."
China is the world's biggest emitter of carbon but has always insisted that as a developing country it should be exempt from binding obligations on emissions.
But Australia's Climate Change Minister, Greg Combet, has defended Canada's withdrawal, insisting the country is still committed to reducing pollution.
"The Canadian decision to withdraw from the protocol should not be used to suggest Canada does not intend to play its part in global efforts to tackle climate change," a spokesman said in a statement.
"In Durban, Canada made clear it supports a new international climate change agreement that includes commitments from all major emitters."
Read More: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-12-13/china-hits-out-at-canada27s-kyoto-withdrawal/3729740
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