Japan’s Prime Minister says he hopes to make a deal on a future decarbonization policy in Asia. Ishiba Shigeru is set to gather with leaders in Laos this week for a summit of AZEC, the Asia Zero Emission Community.
It was launched last year by Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The 11-member group also includes Australia.
Ishiba said during a meeting on Monday in Tokyo that promoting decarbonization is indispensable for export-oriented nations in Asia to survive in global markets, amid growing awareness of the issue across the world.
He says he will seek an agreement with community partner countries on formulating a 10-year action plan and measures to further advance cooperation.
As part of the action plan, Ishiba has proposed setting rules designed to accelerate decarbonization efforts in Asia, as well as steps to decarbonize emission-heavy sectors, such as power generation and transportation.