Global climate goals must respect national circumstances, says Bhupender Yadav
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav stated that India will advocate for equity and differentiated responsibilities at the upcoming COP31 in Türkiye.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said on Tuesday that global climate targets must consider national sovereignty, poverty-eradication programmes and specific national circumstances.
According to The Indian Express, Yadav will represent India at the 31st United Nations annual climate conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye, which runs from November 9 to 21.
The minister noted that India has not yet decided whether to support a proposal by Türkiye to meet 35 per cent of energy needs through electricity by 2035.
Yadav stated that an immediate phase-out of fossil fuels is not feasible because providing energy access to the public is the government's top priority.
The minister said India's priority is to ensure that negotiations respect the principles of equity, common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities.
India will also push for developed nations to fulfil climate finance obligations and for the commencement of the Climate Finance Work Programme at COP31.