Japan commits $3 bln, China $38 mln aid at Rio+20

Japan will provide USD3 billion in aid to developing countries in the next three years to make the transition to a green economy, the country’s foreign minister, Koichiro Gemba, announced yesterday in his address to the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, Rio+20, yesterday.

Gemba also called on the member-countries to work together to create a green economy based on the efficient use of energy and resources. Japan's long-standing efforts on energy saving and experiences in recycling could contribute to building such an economy, he said.

Japan will formally announce the assistance next month when it holds a Ministers' meeting in the country's north-eastern Tohoku region to share lessons learned from last year's earthquake and tsunami, local press reports said.

On China’s part, Premier Wen Jiabao said his country will contribute USD6 million to a UN Environment Program trust fund for projects and activities that help developing countries raise capacity for environmental protection

Wen urged the international community to make joint efforts to promote sustainable development, while pledging China's readiness to live up to its responsibilities as a major developing country in this regard.

He stressed that countries around the globe should continue to work as partners, adhere to the Rio Principles, "especially the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities."

Wen also promised that China will make available 200 million yuan (USD31.7 million) for a three-year international project to help small island countries, least developed countries and African countries tackle climate change.

More than 100 Heads of State and Government are discussing how to balance environmental conservation with economic development at the Conference.

Addressing the opening session, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said a historic agreement was in sight and called on the participants "not to waste this opportunity as the world is watching to see if words will translate into action."