Overview
During the grand opening of the high-level segment at COP 28 in the UAE, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a big announcement. He discussed his vision of hosting the 33rd Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP 33) in India in 2028. Expressing his aspirations, PM Modi emphasised India’s dedication to playing a vital role in the worldwide endeavours to tackle climate change.
What is COP 28?
COP 28 signifies the 28th gathering of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Functioning as the sole multilateral forum for decision-making on climate change, it holds its sessions yearly. Notably, COP 28 boasts extensive membership, with representatives from nearly every country across the globe participating in the discussions and negotiations.
What did Prime Minister Narendra Modi say?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed India’s dedication to the UN Framework for Climate Change process, stating that India is committed to working within this framework. He added that this commitment is why he proposed hosting the COP33 Summit in India in 2028 through the platform.
In his opening statements, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underlined a noteworthy achievement for India, noting that the nation had successfully met its emission intensity targets 11 years ahead of the committed time frame.
PM Modi magnified India’s climate objectives: “India strives to lessen the emissions intensity of its GDP by 45 per cent by 2030. It has been decided to improve the share of non-fossil fuels to 50 per cent.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood out as the sole leader in the opening plenary, alongside COP28 President Sultan Al Jaber and UN Climate Change President Simon Steill. He highlighted India’s notable achievement, showcasing a compelling example of successfully balancing development and environmental conservation.
Addressing a high-level segment for heads of state and governments at the UN climate conference in Dubai, Prime Minister Modi remarked that India has presented a development model to the world, striking an outstanding balance between ecology and economy.
The Prime Minister further put forward the Green Credit Initiative, emphasising the focus on creating carbon sinks through active participation from the public.
Calling the Green Credit Initiative a pro-planet, pro-active, and positive initiative, Prime Minister Modi addressed the world leaders and noted their continuous support for climate justice, climate finance, and the green credit he had raised.
“With our collective efforts, the belief has grown that safeguarding everyone’s interests is essential for the world’s welfare,” he added.
He also underscored the necessity to ensure that all developing countries receive a fair share of the global carbon budget.
Before this, Prime Minister Modi had advocated for ensuring necessary climate financing and technological transfer to developing countries, emphasising the recognition that they have not been contributors to the climate problem but are actively willing to contribute to the solution.
He also urged affluent nations to transfer technology to assist developing countries in addressing climate change. During an interview with the UAE-based Aletihad in Dubai, PM Modi reiterated his stance. He has consistently maintained that climate change is a collective challenge requiring a unified global response.
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of aligning ambitions with progress, saying, “Rising ambitions on climate action must see matching progress on climate finance.”
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