German president says global rules key to tackling climate change

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has called for international cooperation and adherence to shared rules to overcome the climate crisis.

"Without greater international cooperation and mutual trust, we will not succeed in overcoming global challenges such as climate change or the fight against hunger and poverty," Steinmeier said at the opening of the third Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC) on Monday.

The conference in the northern German city focuses on the themes of resilient economies, technology and the future of the planet under the motto "The Power of Cooperation: Driving Progress Together," with organizers expecting around 2,000 participants from more than 100 countries.

Discussions will also focus on risks and conflicts as well as the future of human cooperation, according to the organizers.

Steinmeier said it remained important to continue working with full force to combat climate change, even in economically difficult times.

"Only if we work more closely together internationally and can rely on shared rules, only if we can count on a strong United Nations and its subsidiary organizations - only then will we succeed in achieving the sustainability goals," he said.