NEW DELHI: Alok Sharma, the United Kingdom’s minister responsible for the United Nations Climate Change Conference 2021 or COP26, arrived in India on Monday, February 15, for a two-day visit for climate discussions with Indian leaders. Sharma is also the President of COP26.
According to a statement from the British High Commission in New Delhi, during his visit, Sharma will meet senior ministers, as well as leaders from industries, business and civil societies to discuss strengthening the UK-India climate association and preparing for a successful COP26 Summit later this year. In his first visit to Asia as COP President, Sharma is expected to welcome India’s significant progress on climate action and clean energy transition. He will also focus on Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi’s global leadership in establishing the International Solar Alliance and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, which is co-chaired by the UK.
The statement also read that India’s proficiency is expected to be of great significance to global discussions on clean energy transition as part of COP preparations. Sharma will also highlight opportunities in the low carbon economy, celebrate current commitments to achieve net-zero emissions and motivate influential businesses to promote the growing movement of corporate climate action throughout their sector and supply chain. He will also meetcivil society experts and young thinkers to talk about the challenges and possible solutions to climate change.
In accordance with the statement, Sharma’s visit indicates a step-change in momentum to COP26 preparations and reinforces his ambition to run a comprehensive negotiating process that incorporates the views of all countries. Sharma said that when it comes to climate action, India is an important partner and a global leader. Together, both the countries can make a real change, delivering real progress on deducting emissions and building global commitments. The UK and India are already a joint force for good against climate change, and UK looks forward to strengthening this partnership with India in the run up to COP26 and beyond.