India, Italy confirm full implementation of Paris Agreement

New Delhi [India], October 30 (ANI): India and Italy in a joint statement on Monday confirmed their strong commitment to the full implementation of the Paris Agreement adopted under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Paolo Gentiloni pledged to work together in the run up to and at CoP23, and beyond, on the next steps towards substantial and balanced progress on all items of the Paris work programme.

The two leaders acknowledged the enhanced technical cooperation in the renewable energy sector and welcomed the MoU between the Ministry for the Environment of Italy and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy of India.

They recognised the ongoing progress in both the countries in replacing traditional energy sources with green ones, as a contribution to the global engagement against climate change.

They further noted with appreciation the second Mission Innovation (MI) International Workshop on Smart Grids Innovation Challenge that will be held in India from November 16 to 19.

MI is a global initiative of 22 countries and the European Union to dramatically accelerate global clean energy innovation.

Agreeing that the migratory phenomenon is global in nature and requires a global response, both leaders noted the ongoing discussions within the UN Framework and their respective positions.

They further acknowledged the valuable contribution of both the countries to peace and development in Africa, including through their participation in UN Peacekeeping Missions.

Italy looked forward to India's participation as an observer at the forthcoming EU-African Union Summit as well.(ANI)