Britain, which is co-hosting the virtual summit in preparation for climate negotiations in Glasgow next year, has been criticized by activists for funding oil and natural gas projects that contribute to climate change. Prime Minister Johnson stated that taking bold action now will create new jobs, aid in the recovery from the pandemic, and protect the environment for future generations. Over 70 world leaders, including those from China, India, Canada, and Japan, are expected to announce more ambitious climate goals at the summit. Britain is leading the way by committing to cease public financing for overseas fossil fuel projects, setting a new standard for serious climate action according to Louise Burrows, a policy adviser with consultancy E3G. Britain now has the authority to encourage other countries to do the same. The UK Export Finance agency has provided guarantees worth billions of dollars to support British oil and gas companies in expanding in various countries. This move comes after criticism of UK Export Finance's involvement in a major liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique. The government announced a new policy to end state support for oil, natural gas, and coal projects overseas, with some exceptions for gas-fired power plants that align with the Paris agreement.