Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to do everything possible to achieve a rapid transition from coal to energy sources that do not contribute to climate change.
In a meeting with Modi today in New York, Bainimarama they look forward to India’s continued leadership.
The Prime Minister says India has committed to doubling its renewable energy target between now and 2022 adding this is a very positive development.
Bainimarama says that we in the Pacific urge India to do more to reduce its reliance on coal, which as we all know, is one of the greatest contributors to climate change.
He says this is not about singling anyone out adding he knows Australia supplies India coal, as it does to China — who must also cut their coal reliance adding he urged the Australians to end their reliance on coal as well at the Pacific Islands Forum in Tuvalu.
Bainimarama says Fiji recognises that coal has always been an important part of their economies, as an export revenue earner and for your national energy security.
The Prime Minister also thanked the leadership India has shown in building a new Coalition for Disaster‑Resilient Infrastructure.
He adds as nations that are particularly vulnerable to climate‑related impacts, they welcome this initiative and very much look forward to the opportunity of working with India to tap into their capacity and expertise.
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