2LT International News

SACRAMENTO, California: In a trip that presents political risk and opportunity for international collaboration, California Governor Gavin Newsom began a weeklong visit to China on October 23 to reinforce his state’s role as a global leader in climate change.

He will start his tour with a discussion in Hong Kong before traveling to Beijing, Shanghai and Guangdong, and Jiangsu provinces.

During his visit, Newsom will tour the first Chinese city to deploy an all-electric bus fleet, an offshore wind facility, and a wetlands preserve, and sign agreements with leaders of Chinese provinces to set mutual commitments on a host of climate goals.

California has already signed many relevant agreements with subnational governments.

Newsom’s agenda also includes conversations on “strengthening cultural ties and combating xenophobia.”

His trip comes amid rising tensions between the U.S. and China over trade, human rights, Taiwan, and international conflicts, and follows a recent visit to Beijing by a congressional delegation led by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.

While the international trip could enhance Newsom’s political and policy stature beyond his state, opponents will aim to damage his reputation by pointing out his relationship with China’s communist government.

California Republicans said Newsom should not visit China amid tensions over international conflicts and the suppression of free speech.

Republican state Assembly Leader James Gallagher said, “Newsom should not be playing make-believe diplomat while ignoring the challenges facing our state.”

However, climate experts said California plays a key role in progressing global climate policy.

Nathaniel Keohane, president of the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, said, “It is a major clean energy leader. It is one of the leading economies in the world. It has a huge amount of technical expertise. There is a natural role for California and the California governor.”