New Delhi, June 19
India has made it clear that any debate on addressing critical issues related to climate change should harmonise equitably the imperatives of development in the emerging economies and sustainable development.
Minister of state for industry Ashwani Kumar articulated this position of India on climate change issues during his meeting with former vice-president of the United States Al Gore on the sidelines of the UBS CEO’s Summit that concluded at Florence, Italy, yesterday.
The minister stated that while there could be no difference of opinion as to the urgency of addressing critical issues related to climate changes, the global debate should harmonise equitably the imperatives of development in the emerging economies and sustainable development.
“The terms of the debate and the idioms of the dialogue should not be such as to unjustifiably transfer the major burden of sustainable development on developing countries,” Kumar said.
Al Gore agreed with the minister and also expressed willingness to visit India to engage with all stakeholders on the various issues and challenges related to climate change and sustainable development, particularly taking into consideration the situation in India.
His visit may be scheduled in October or November this year.
