Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Sunday that the Global South, particularly island nations, is suffering the most from climate change, during his address to the National Assembly of Seychelles. He called for climate action guided by fairness, responsibility, and equity.
Visible Effects on Coastlines and Ecosystems
Modi highlighted that the consequences of climate change are already evident on coastlines, marine ecosystems, weather patterns, and communities. "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 ecosystem, in weather patterns, and in our communities," he said. The Prime Minister is on a three-day visit to the archipelagic nation.
Call for Equitable Climate Action
Modi reiterated that countries contributing the least to climate change should not bear the greatest burden of its consequences. He stressed that climate action must be guided by "fairness, responsibility and equity." India and Seychelles share a vision of a more inclusive world and remain committed to advancing the interests of the Global South, he added.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
"This is the spirit that unites the Global South. And this is the vision that India and Seychelles will continue to advance together," Modi stated. He noted that Seychelles holds a special place in India's vision for the Indian Ocean, saying, "The Indian Ocean does not separate India and Seychelles. It connects us." The Prime Minister proposed expanding cooperation in fisheries, marine science, coastal management, renewable energy, and sustainable tourism. "Together, we can build partnerships in fisheries, marine science, coastal management, renewable energy, and sustainable tourism," he said.
