US climate envoy John Kerry is reportedly planning to step down from his role and shift focus to work on President Joe Biden's re-election campaign. The 80-year-old Kerry has served as President Biden's special envoy for climate, a role created specifically for him, and is expected to conclude his three-year tenure by spring.
During his time as climate envoy, Kerry played a pivotal role in leading the US negotiating team through three United Nations climate summits, reestablishing American leadership in the global climate arena after the country withdrew from the Paris climate agreement during the Trump administration.
One of Kerry's notable achievements was advocating for cooperation on climate issues between the US and China, the two largest polluters globally, even during periods of diplomatic tension.
As Secretary of State under former President Barack Obama, Kerry played a key role in brokering the crucial 2015 Paris climate agreement. The agreement marked a significant milestone, with nearly the entire world supporting a common strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat global warming.
Kerry's departure raises questions about the future trajectory of US climate diplomacy and the nation's commitment to addressing climate change on the global stage.
(With Agency Inputs)
