Despite the renaissance of fossil fuels at COP27, IEA chief Fatih Birol sees strong momentum for the global energy transition. Birol predicts a peak in gas consumption soon. But the 1.5-degree target will require trillions in investment. He advises Germany not to venture into fracking.
By Alexandra Endres
When it comes to solar technology, the world is dependent on supplies from China. But in the West, there are debates about human rights violations along the supply chain. The People's Republic now reacts by planning its own "clean" supply chains for exports. The West would still receive solar technology with a clear conscience but would remain dependent.
By Nico Beckert
Jiang Zemin had gained cult status in recent years, especially among China's young Internet users. The toad, as they fondly called him, represents for them a self-ironic, cosmopolitan China that has been lost under his successors Hu Jintao and Xi Jinping.
By Fabian Peltsch
After 1989, Jiang Zemin led China back into the international community of states after it had become a pariah after the Tiananmen bloodbath. In 2002, he organized the first peaceful transfer of power in the history of the People's Republic. The mourning for his death is accompanied by sharp criticism of Xi Jinping.
By Michael Radunski
It's a world premiere: Today, the European Commission will present a legislative proposal to establish a certification system for carbon removal. The procedure is sharply criticized by opponents.
By Claire Stam
Tomorrow, Thursday, the Council will vote on its position on corporate due diligence. Although the text lags behind the Commission's proposal in terms of ambition, France is blocking it. Paris is pushing for financial services to be exempt from the law.
By Charlotte Wirth
Amid protests against zero-Covid, the EU Council chief travels to China. The timing for the first personal handshake in years is problematic. For President Xi, however, the photo opportunity comes at just the right time, as the EU-US dialogue on China is being held in Washington at almost the same time. For Michel, however, a "mission impossible" awaits him in China.
By Amelie Richter
The German government wants to ease the burden on companies regarding the crisis-related rise in energy costs – at least that is the official justification. But calculations show that many companies are paying less than before the crisis. This could once again draw criticism from EU partners.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
Amid protests against zero-Covid, the EU Council chief travels to China. The timing for the first personal handshake in years is problematic. For President Xi, however, the photo opportunity comes at just the right time, as the EU-US dialogue on China is being held in Washington at almost the same time. For Michel, however, a "mission impossible" awaits him in China.
By Amelie Richter
How do you protest in a country where protesting is basically forbidden? In a country where hashtags and search keywords are being blocked within a few hours? The Chinese solve the problem with creativity and irony: with a blank white sheet of paper.
By Michael Radunski
