Ankara: A Paris official has blamed Americans and widespread use of air conditioning in the US for Europe's record-breaking heat wave, which has reportedly caused more than 1,300 deaths.

According to Anadolu Agency, the remarks came after American tourists criticized France's limited air-conditioning infrastructure as temperatures climbed above 40C (104F). 'Dear American journalists and social media 'influencers': for days, some of you have been criticizing and making fun of Paris because the city does not have A/C in every room.OMG, this is so rich!' Audrey Pulvar, deputy mayor of Paris for international relations, wrote on her Facebook account.

The official said such criticism was misplaced, noting that the US remains one of the world's largest greenhouse gas emitters, adding: "Your cities, which are 90 per cent air conditioned, are not unrelated to this."

Pulvar emphasized that Paris has been proactive in reducing its environmental footprint and adapting to the consequences of climate change well before the expected milestone of June 2026. She urged critics to focus on their contributions to climate change, stating, 'So please, enough with the lecture. Just start doing your part.'

Additionally, Pulvar highlighted the extensive environmental policies implemented by Paris under left-wing leadership. These include expanding green spaces, reducing car use, improving building energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable agriculture. She asserted that these measures have helped limit the impact of the heat wave, though acknowledged that more work remains. Pulvar argued that countries contributing most to climate change should refrain from criticizing those working on solutions.