Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Dubai on Thursday night to attend the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) Summit. Prime Minister Modi is set to address the opening session of the United Nations’ World Climate Action Summit in the United Arab Emirates on Friday, December 1.
He will also participate in the three high-level side events, of which two will be co-hosted by India. On his arrival here. PM Modi was received by Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahayan, Deputy PM and Interior Minister.
The Indian Prime Minister also received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora, waiting outside his hotel, amid loud cries of ‘Abki Baar Modi Sarkar’, ‘Abki Baar 400 Paar’ and ‘Har Har Modi’.
Upon his arrival in Dubai, PM Modi took to his social media X and said that he is looking forward to the proceedings of the Summit, aimed at creating a better planet.
“Landed in Dubai to take part in the COP-28 Summit. Looking forward to the proceedings of the Summit, which are aimed at creating a better planet,” Modi posted on X on his arrival.
“Deeply moved by the warm welcome from the Indian community in Dubai. Their support and enthusiasm is a testament to our vibrant culture and strong bonds,” he said in a post later.
During his stay in Dubai, Prime Minister Modi is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with some of the leaders participating in the summit, including Israeli President Isaac Herzog, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the newly-elected Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu.
Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson shared a video message on X, giving an overview of PM Modi action-packed programme on December 1.
MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that the World Climate Action Summit is the high-level segment of COP28, adding that it will start in the morning with the opening events of this high-level climate event.
“The prime minister will deliver his address. But after he attends a special event hosted by the UAE on transforming climate finance, subsequently, the prime minister will host with the UAE an event…that will look at green credits, which is an initiative that the PM has a personal interest in.
Bagchi further said that in this course, a mass number of bilateral will happen during the day.
PM On UAE Prez Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s Invitation
The visit of PM Modi to Dubai comes at the invitation of the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Several other world leaders are also set to attend the climate action summit, high-level segment of the COP28, to discuss ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and effectively combat climate change.
In his statement, the prime minister said the COP28 will provide an opportunity to review progress made under the Paris Agreement and chart a path for future course on climate action.
“At the Voice of Global South Summit convened by India, the Global South spoke for the need for climate action based on the principles of equity, climate justice, and common but differentiated responsibilities, as well as a greater focus on adaptation,” Modi said.
“It is important that efforts of the developing world be supported with adequate climate financing and technology transfer. They must have access to equitable carbon and development space to achieve sustainable development,” he said.
The prime minister noted that India has walked the talk when it comes to climate action.
“Our achievements in different sectors like renewable energy, energy efficiency, afforestation, energy conservation, Mission LiFE are testament to the commitment of our people towards mother earth,” he said.
Modi said he was looking forward to joining special events including on climate finance and green credit initiative.
(With inputs from agencies)