On July 4, 2023, Wang Zhigang，Minister of Science and Technology of China met with Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), and his delegation in Beijing. The two sides had in-depth discussions on global clean energy technology development, cooperation projects, innovation mission mechanisms, and electric vehicle initiatives.

　　Wang Zhigang stated that the development of clean energy is an important pathway for the human society to address global climate change and achieve sustainable development. As a staunch supporter and active participant in the Paris Agreement, the Chinese government has always attached great importance to the development of clean energy and is solemnly committed to peaking carbon emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality before 2060. Technological innovation is the key to achieving these goals. During the 13th Five-Year Plan period, we have strengthened scientific research in key areas, built a green technology innovation system, and enhanced international cooperation in the area to provide more Chinese solutions for the global transition to clean energy. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, we will continue to provide strong support for technological innovation on clean energy. We also hope to further deepen cooperation with the IEA, innovate cooperation methods, and make joint contributions to drive green, low-carbon, circular and sustainable development across the world.

　　Fatih Birol said that China has played a significant role in global clean energy development. According to relevant data, China‘s R&D investment in new energy takes a leading position in the world, making remarkable contributions in reducing the cost of clean energy and increasing the proportion of clean energy use worldwide. The IEA hopes to maintain close contact with MOST China, enrich cooperation content, promote in-depth exchanges, and jointly push for breakthroughs in global energy technology, to realize a healthy development of the energy industry.

　　Dai Gang, Director-General and Sun Jian, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation and Chen Jiachang, Director-General of the Department of High and New Technology of MOST, Huang Jing, Director-General of Administrative Center of the China Agenda 21, Laura Cozzi, Director of Sustainability, Technology and Outlooks at the IEA, and Rebecca McKimm, Acting Director of the IEA China Office, were present during the meeting.