Xie Zhenhua, who served as China’s chief negotiator during key climate meetings in Copenhagen and Paris, has been appointed the country’s new special climate envoy, the environment ministry confirmed on Thursday.

The move comes as Beijing attempts to restore climate diplomacy with the United States after a four-year hiatus during the administration of Donald Trump.

The Ministry of Ecology and Environment said the appointment of the veteran official reflects China’s commitment to strengthen communication with all sides when it comes to climate change.

Guest post from Reuters