Kerry arrives in Marrakech for climate summit overshadowed by Trump

The US Secretary of State, John Kerry has arrived in Marrakech for the ongoing climate change summit, COP22.

Kerry would however have to reassure delegates from almost 200 nations at the summit of the United States’ commitment to abide by the Paris agreement.

There is growing concern among delegates at the COP22 summit over the election of Donald Trump last week as president of the United States because of his denial of climate change.

The US president-elect has described climate change as a hoax perpetrated by the Chinese and has vowed to resume coal production as well as withdraw the US from the climate treaty.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Kerry said: “What I will do is speak to the assembly about our efforts … and our deep commitment as the American people to this effort” adding that “I can’t speak to the (next) administration, but I know the American people support this overwhelmingly”.

Kerry has meanwhile reiterated an appeal by the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to global leaders to strengthen the fight against global warming.

110 states including the United States, China, India and Japan have ratified the Paris agreement which commits the international community to reducing greenhouse gas emissions as well as containing global temperatures below 2 degree celcius.