Japan PM Vows to Take Lead in Decarbonization in Asia

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida pledged today that Japan will "take the lead" in efforts to achieve a carbon-free Asia, Kyodo News Agency reported.

Speaking at a multinational forum focused on discussing decarbonization measures in Tokyo, Kishida said Japan will try to create a huge "decarbonization market" capable of attracting investment from around the world to Asia, adding that reducing carbon dioxide emissions is a "common challenge" for the region.

He also said that 4 quadrillion yen ($28 trillion) are estimated to be required for decarbonizing Asia, and promised to establish a new organization to support Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) members in implementing policies necessary to reach carbon neutrality.