The prime minister of Denmark stated that China is dedicated to achieving a climate change agreement at important discussions next year, despite global economic challenges. During an Asia-Europe meeting in Beijing, Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen emphasized the need for countries to not use economic turmoil as an excuse to delay a deal. Rasmussen has been engaging with China, a major emitter of carbon dioxide, in preparation for end-game talks in Copenhagen on a new climate change pact. Following discussions with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, Rasmussen confirmed that China is fully committed to reaching an agreement in Copenhagen. The negotiations, scheduled to conclude late next year, are aimed at developing a new treaty based on the current Kyoto Protocol climate agreement which will expire by the end of 2012. Denmark's role as host has elevated its importance in seeking consensus. Despite global attention on the financial crisis and the resulting divisions between wealthy and developing nations on how to address climate change, Rasmussen emphasized China's commitment as a positive example for others to follow. He also urged countries not to use the economic downturn as an excuse to delay or undermine a new agreement, suggesting that investing in green technology could actually help drive economic recovery. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso emphasized the importance of not delaying action on climate change due to the financial crisis. He urged China to join in the efforts, highlighting the high cost of climate change for all countries, including China. Barroso stressed the need for continued efforts to combat climate change and stay on track, despite the challenges posed by the financial crisis. According to the current Kyoto pact, China and other developing nations are not required to set limits on their greenhouse gas emissions. China's rapidly increasing emissions, surpassing those of the United States, have prompted other countries to push for stricter limits. EU environment ministers have suggested that developing countries should aim to keep emissions 15 to 30 percent lower than current levels. This proposal, which does not impose a specific cap on emissions but requires measurable actions, could encourage China and other developing nations to make commitments to reduce emissions. According to Rasmussen, the contributions from developed countries alone will not suffice, and it is essential to involve major emerging economies in addressing climate change. During the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) opening on Friday, the European Union's 27 member states and the European Commission will address climate change policy with Japan, China, India, and 13 other Asian countries. Rasmussen expressed his desire for the meeting to reach an agreement on striving for a pact in Copenhagen.