The COP30 climate conference is about to start in Brazil. Notably, the United States, the world's second-largest emitter of CO2, will not be represented by senior government officials.
With no top US officials attending, China may gain a stronger position in the discussions.
The US has no plan to send top officials, possibly giving China greater influence in the talks.
The absence of US leadership could shift the balance of power and affect the outcomes of these critical talks on climate policy.
Summary: The lack of senior US participation at COP30 may empower China to exert more control over climate negotiations in Brazil.