AFTER years of tough negotiations, a long-anticipated legally binding agreement on the global fight against climate change was finally adopted Saturday in Paris with no objection.

    The ambitious deal, a result of strong aspiration and persistent efforts by all parties involved, marked a milestone step toward the common goal that would safeguard sustainable development for mankind.

    The road leading to the historically significant document was fraught with barriers and challenges, and a breakthrough along the way was realized only when the parties jointly pledged unremitting endeavors toward a common goal, bearing the bigger picture in mind and accommodating the concerns of others.

    During the talks, China maintained close communication and worked closely with other parties concerned, playing a positive and constructive role in achieving success of the conference.

    The unanimous adoption of the deal is just one significant step in the right direction, whether or not the aim of holding global average temperature rise to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels could be achieved lies in the implementation of the agreement.

    It is imperative now for all parties involved to lose no time in working out the many details of the agreement and displaying the utmost sincerity by translating commitments into tangible actions.

    It is highly hoped that the rich nations would bear the fact of their high per capita emissions in mind and assume their due responsibilities by honoring their commitment to climate finance and transfer of low-carbon and eco-friendly technologies to developing countries.

    (This is an excerpt of a commentary by Xinhua News Agency writer Ma Mengli.)