A senior policy adviser stated that China is getting ready to implement its initial strategy to combat climate change, indicating a growing concern about global warming in a country that has experienced unchecked economic growth. Zou Ji, a climate policy expert at the People's University of China in Beijing, informed Reuters that the national plan will likely establish broad objectives for reducing emissions and adapting to changing weather patterns. After a minimum of two years of preparation and negotiations within the bureaucracy, the plan is expected to be unveiled this year. Zou emphasized that the plan reflects China's recognition of the escalating worldwide concern that greenhouse gases from industrial facilities, power plants, and vehicles are causing a rise in average temperatures and could potentially have catastrophic effects on the climate. He noted that the Chinese government is increasingly prioritizing this issue. China's first official, comprehensive document on climate change is expected to be approved and issued soon. A U.N. panel of scientists recently warned that human activity is likely the cause of global warming, with temperatures projected to rise by 1.8 to 4.0 Celsius in the 21st century. This could result in more droughts, heatwaves, and rising sea levels for over 1,000 years. China is rapidly growing to potentially become the world's third-largest economy by 2008, surpassing Germany and trailing behind only Japan and the United States. Additionally, it is predicted to become the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases by 2009, surpassing the United States according to the International Energy Agency. Zou, a member of the Chinese delegation to international climate talks since 2000, noted that while Beijing's public response to the panel's findings has been subdued, the government is closely considering the numerous warnings. Pan Yue, a vice minister of China's State Environmental Protection Administration, stated that wealthy countries bear the primary responsibility for reducing emissions, but China will also make contributions. He emphasized that as a responsible major power, China will not shirk its duty. Zou mentioned that the program is currently awaiting approval from the State Council after being reviewed by multiple ministries and agencies, but its release may be delayed due to preparations for an upcoming Communist Party congress. Alan Dupont, an expert on climate change and security at the University of Sydney, explained that President Hu Jintao is facing a dilemma on how to implement policies that promote economic growth and job creation while also reducing fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. Dupont emphasized that the stability of the regime and the future of China rely on sustaining economic growth, but there is a growing awareness in China that addressing climate change is crucial for achieving their goals. Despite China's secretive government, there are indications that Beijing is increasingly concerned about the potential impact of global warming on their aspirations for prosperity, stability, and influence. Zou stated that climate experts are getting ready to give a presentation on global warming to China's top leaders. This marks the first time that one of their usual study sessions will focus on climate change, indicating that the issue is gaining importance in the political sphere.