Prime Minister Narendra Modi has landed in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to participate in the World Climate Action Summit, a prominent component of the 28th Conference of Parties (COP-28) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This visit comes in response to an invitation from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and PM Modi received a warm welcome from UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan upon his arrival.
As PM @narendramodi sets foot in Dubai, here is an overview of his action-packed programme tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/SkML9HZYvV
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) November 30, 2023
During COP-28, Prime Minister Modi is set to address the Opening Session of the World Climate Action Summit. Additionally, he will actively engage in three high-level side events, two of which are co-hosted by India. The inaugural event, co-hosted by India and the UAE, marks the launch of the Green Credits Initiative—an endeavor recently initiated by India’s Ministry of Environment. The initiative aims to issue Green Credits for reforestation projects on waste and degraded lands and river catchment areas, aiming to restore their ecological vitality. The second co-hosted event, in collaboration with Sweden, will see the launch of LeadIT 2.0, a Leadership Group for Industry Transition. This initiative, initially introduced by India and Sweden in 2019, focuses on fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors to expedite the transition to net-zero emissions in heavy industries.
Prime Minister Modi will also participate in a high-level event titled “Transforming Climate Finance,” hosted by the COP-28 Presidency, the UAE.
It is pertinrnt to note that India has made substantial commitments to climate action. During COP-26 in Glasgow, Prime Minister Modi announced India’s “Panchamrit,” comprising five specific targets as India’s unprecedented contribution to climate action. Additionally, he introduced the “Mission Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE),” further highlighting India’s dedication to sustainability and environmental protection.
Moreover, India’s role in climate action was also prominent during its G20 Presidency, with climate issues being a top priority. The New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration from the G20 Presidency outlined several concrete steps toward climate action and sustainable development.
UAE an important partner in the field of climate action: PM Modi
Meanwhile, PM Modi, ahead of his visit to Dubai, UAE, for the World Climate Action Summit of COP-28, expressed his anticipation and enthusiasm for the significant event. He highlighted the importance of the summit being held under the Presidency of the UAE, a crucial partner for India in the realm of climate action.
In his statement, Prime Minister Modi underscored India’s historical commitment to climate action while pursuing social and economic development. He emphasized that climate issues have been a top priority, even during India’s G20 Presidency. The New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration from that period outlined several concrete steps toward climate action and sustainable development.
PM Modi further also emphasized the importance of equity, climate justice, and common but differentiated responsibilities, especially for the developing world. He stressed that adequate climate financing and technology transfer are crucial to support the efforts of developing nations and enable them to achieve sustainable development.
