Paris: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Paris to attend the crucial climate change conference which could witness a historic and legally binding deal to cut emissions globally.
"Bonjour Paris! PM @narendramodi arrives in France to attend @COP21," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted as Modi arrived in the French capital.
The Prime Minister will inaugurate the Indian pavilion at the climate change summit on Monday and will address leaders and delegates from across the world at the summit. He will also jointly launch the India-mooted International Solar Alliance with French President Francois Hollande on Monday.
India's harmony with nature, climate action plans to curb carbon emissions as well as an e-book depicting how the country has been environmentally conscious over the ages will be showcased at its pavilion to be inaugurated by Modi at the crucial summit.
Indian Environment Ministry officials said that Modi will inaugurate the pavilion by switching on the water screen which will have the message of "just climate action" on it.
A large number of Heads of State, Heads of Government and Ministers of several countries along with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon are expected to be present at the launch of the International Solar Alliance, a concept conceived by Modi.
Modi would join an estimated 150 Presidents, Prime Ministers and Heads of States at the crucial climate summit.
During his visit, Modi will also attend 'Mission Innovation' being hosted by US President Barack Obama. Prior to his departure, the Prime Minister said in his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', "The whole world is worried about climate change. There are discussions everywhere over it and concerns are being expressed. The temperature of the Earth should not increase now. It is the responsibility and concern of all."
His emphasis on the responsibility of all assumes significance as the developed world is trying to place greater onus on developing nations like India in the fight against climate change.
India has been maintaining that the developed countries have been the major polluters over centuries and should assume greater role in fighting global warming by funding and transferring low-cost technology to developing nations.
Joining a select group of countries, India said it will provide $2.5 million for the vulnerable nations in the Commonwealth to help them introduce clean energy and reduce green-house gas emissions.
The Paris climate change conference also known as Conference of Parties (CoP-21) is set to kick off on Monday in Paris and will go on till December 11.
Paris climate conference will for the first time in over 20 years of UN negotiations, aim to achieve a legally binding universal agreement on climate, with the aim of keeping global warming below 2°C.
The conference is expected to attract close to 50,000 participants including 25,000 official delegates from government, intergovernmental organisations, UN agencies, NGOs and civil society.
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