WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement on China joining the Paris Agreement:

“Over the weekend, the United States and the People's Republic of China formally joined the Paris Agreement, creating momentum for other countries to do the same so that the Agreement will enter into force this year.

“I congratulate President Obama for once again demonstrating visionary leadership to address the pressing issue of climate change—a complex, global challenge that has tremendous impact on U.S. national and economic security because of its implications here and around the world.  When the history books are ultimately written, they will highlight this day as a key step in the fight to roll back climate change.

“Climate change is not an issue that will be completely solved by this agreement, but this Administration has put us on a path toward protecting and preserving the finite resources that we all share.  To get us this far has required tremendous dedication and diplomatic prowess from the President personally, as well as Secretary Kerry and many of the dedicated men and women serving in this Administration.

“I urge all countries who have not yet formally joined this agreement to follow the United States and China in taking the necessary steps to formally join the Agreement at the upcoming U.N. General Assembly meeting in New York later this month.”

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