INTRODUCTION

In an era marked by escalating geopolitical tensions and multifaceted conflicts between China and the United States, the importance of sustained international engagement has never been more critical. Amidst growing disagreements on trade, technology, and security, the field of sustainable development—specifically in clean energy and new energy vehicles (NEVs)—emerges as a promising arena for cooperation rather than confrontation.

As both China and the United States are among the world’s largest emitters of greenhouse gases and simultaneously key players in the global automotive and energy sectors, their policy decisions and technological advancements have far-reaching implications for global sustainability goals. China, for instance, has emerged as the world’s largest market for new energy vehicles and a leader in solar and wind energy deployment, while the U.S. continues to drive innovation in clean technologies and financial mechanisms for green investments.

By focusing on two interconnected sectors—clean energy systems and new energy vehicles—the seminar aims to explore how coordinated efforts can not only reduce carbon footprints but also foster economic resilience, energy security, and technological co-development. Moreover, the seminar underscores the role of subnational and local actors in shaping sustainable pathways. From city-level EV infrastructure projects to regional energy grid modernization, local innovations often serve as incubators for national and global policy models. The event will particularly highlight the successful policy experiments of Shenzhen in EV development, providing a rich lens for understanding how governance at different scales can drive systemic change.