Reply to France and Canada on Paris Agreement
As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Kate M. Byrnes
to the Permanent Council, Vienna
June 8, 2017
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
As a NATO Ally and friend of both France and Canada, the United States deeply values the views and perspectives of our French partners, even when we disagree.
As noted, the United States plans to exit from the Paris Agreement, following the President’s determination that our climate policy needs a balanced approach – one that promotes American jobs, economic prosperity, and energy security. He also made clear his openness to renegotiating our participation in the Paris Agreement – or negotiating a new deal entirely – on terms that are more favorable to American economic interests. The President has acknowledged criticism and concerns raised by other countries in response to this decision. He affirmed that the United States will continue to be environmentally friendly.
America has been a leader in clean energy technology and environmental protection, and we will continue that leadership. The United States has an impressive record of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, including a dramatic reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. Since 2005, CO2 emissions have fallen by 11.5 percent, and are expected to continue to decline.
Looking forward, the United States will work with its allies and partners to develop common ground and establish a way forward on this important issue which affects all countries.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.
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