Celebrating Connections: Italian PM Giorgia Meloni and PM Modi’s Reunion at COP28
During the ongoing 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) at the United Nations in Dubai this December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a fruitful meeting with Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni. Their discussions on the sidelines added a significant diplomatic touch to the event.
- Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Modi shared a photo post, expressing in Italian: “Incontro il PM Giorgia Meloni dell’Italia ai margini del Summit COP 28. Anticipando sforzi collaborativi tra l’India e l’Italia per un futuro sostenibile e prospero.
Meloni reciprocated with a selfie alongside the Indian Prime Minister, captioning it, “Good friends at COP28. #Melodi” – a delightful glimpse into the camaraderie at the summit.
Dubai was abuzz with diplomatic engagements as PM Modi delved into a series of bilateral meetings at the summit
He covered substantial ground, engaging with key world leaders such as UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Swedish PM Ulf Kristersson, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, French President Emmanuel Macron, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. A busy day indeed, fostering global discussions on critical issues.
Meloni reciprocated by sharing a selfie with the Indian PM, captioning it, “COP28 moments with a good friend. #Melodi”.
Modi’s diplomatic endeavours extended beyond the scheduled meetings as he met with King Charles III on the sidelines, acknowledging the monarch’s pivotal role in combating climate change. Taking to X to share the experience, Modi expressed, “Today in Dubai, I had the privilege of engaging with King Charles, a staunch advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable development. He is an important voice in the fight against climate change.”
Furthermore, the Indian Prime Minister engaged in a fruitful discussion with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, covering a spectrum of bilateral and global matters. Modi shared the experience on X, stating, “Met Prime Minister of Vietnam, Mr. Pham Minh Chinh, and had a great conversation on various issues.” These impromptu exchanges added an extra layer of depth to the diplomatic dialogue at the summit.
Modi’s presence in Dubai held a purposeful stance as he actively participated in the World Climate Action Summit, a pivotal component of COP28 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Emphasising the profound effects of climate change on nations in the Global South, he underscored the imperative need for climate finance and technology to fulfil the aspirations of these countries.
Modi shed light on the disproportionate impact of climate change on nations like India
Modi shed light on the disproportionate impact of climate change on nations like India, despite their relatively smaller contributions to it. The Prime Minister’s advocacy for equitable solutions resonated, highlighting the urgency for a collective global effort.
Having concluded his commitments, Modi returned to Delhi, landing at the airport late on Friday night. His engagements in Dubai showcased a commitment to addressing climate challenges and fostering international collaboration for a sustainable future.
Arindam Bagchi, the MEA spokesperson, succinctly captured the essence of the visit, noting, “The PM’s trip was marked by fruitful interactions with global leaders and The visit highlighted a commitment to groundbreaking initiatives driving global climate action forward. It underscored a dedication to substantive dialogues and proactive measures, advancing collaborative endeavours for a sustainable and resilient future.
Prime Minister Modi took centre stage at the COP28 Summit in Dubai
Prime Minister Modi took centre stage at the COP28 Summit in Dubai, unveiling a visionary ‘Green Credit Initiative.’ This initiative, centred on fostering carbon sinks through active public involvement, marks a progressive step toward environmental sustainability. Additionally, in a bold proposition, Modi put forth the idea of India hosting the COP33 in 2028.
In his address, he highlighted the limitations of carbon credits driven by a commercial mindset, advocating for a shift away from a destructive mentality focused on personal gains. Modi’s words echoed a call for collective responsibility and a more conscientious approach to combating climate change.