In a statement issued by his spokesperson,  Ban further welcomed the announcement that both countries will take necessary domestic steps to formally join the Agreement as early as possible this year. He also welcomed that they urged other countries to do the same so that the Paris Agreement can enter into force as early as possible.

“The Secretary-General is further encouraged by the commitment of the world's two largest emitters to work for successful outcomes this year to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the Montreal Protocol, the International Civil Aviation Organization Assembly, and at the upcoming G-20 Summit in Hangzhou, China,” the statement said.

The 22 April signature ceremony will build on the strong political momentum from Paris for urgent global climate action by all countries, which is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating a more prosperous, equitable and livable future for all people.

The climate pact will enter into force after 55 countries that account for at least 55 per cent of global emissions have deposited their instruments of ratification.