Global south most affected by climate change; fairness, equity needed in climate action: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the Global South, especially the island nations, are bearing the brunt of climate change. PM Modi added that India will work with Seychelles to ensure that the concerns of small Island developing states receive the attention they deserve on the climate change front.

“The Global South, and especially the island nations, are the most impacted by Climate Change. Its effects are already visible on our coastlines, in the marine ecosystems, in weather patterns, and in our communities. We both firmly believe that those who have contributed the least to climate change should not bear the greatest burden of its consequences,” Modi said in his address to the National Assembly of Seychelles

“Climate action must be guided by fairness, responsibility, and equity. This is the essence of climate justice. India has sought to lead by example. Over the last decade, we have undertaken one of the world's largest expansions of renewable energy,” PM Modi added.

“We have championed sustainable lifestyles through Mission LiFE - Lifestyle for Environment. Through our initiatives like International solar alliance, coalition for disaster resilient infrastructure, global biofuels alliance, and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam - a tree for mother - we have worked with partner countries to boost the green transition,” he added.

“And India is committed to continue working with Seychelles to ensure that the concerns of small island developing states receive the attention they deserve,” he said.

In the joint press statement with the President of Seychelles, PM Modi outlined the vision on maritime security. “India envisions an Indian Ocean where maritime security goes hand in hand with economic prosperity; where our partnerships are defined not by size, but by mutual respect and trust; and where we move forward not merely alongside one another, but together,” he added.

He said our vision is to make Indian Ocean into an ocean of opportunity.

“As maritime neighbours, we recognise that the security of one adds to the security of the other. The prosperity of one contributes to the prosperity of the other. And the stability of the region benefits us all,” he said.

“India deeply values the professionalism and dedication of the Seychelles Defence Forces and the Seychelles Coast Guard. They play a vital role in safeguarding your own vast maritime domain, as well as the wider Indian Ocean region. Our cooperation in maritime security, capacity building, hydrography, and maritime domain awareness reflects our shared commitment to a safer and more secure region,” Modi added in his address to the National Assembly.