Piyush Goyal: Developed Nations Accountable for Environmental Damage, Not the Global South
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New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) The Global South is not accountable for the harm inflicted on the global environment, which has resulted from developed nations that have capitalized on affordable energy, stated Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal during his address on Monday.
The Minister was speaking at the opening session of the CII Partnership Summit 2024 held here. The summit is attended by Trade Ministers from countries including Italy, Israel, Bhutan, Bahrain, Algeria, Nepal, Senegal, South Africa, Myanmar, Qatar, and the Secretary of State for the Ministry of Commerce of Cambodia.
Minister Goyal emphasized that while all participating nations share a collective responsibility towards environmental stewardship, it is clear that the countries represented at this summit should not carry the blame for the environmental damage.
Consequently, he mentioned that obligations regarding shared supply chains and sustainability must be approached through a principle of common but differentiated responsibility. He added that although cooperative efforts are essential, responsibilities must be assigned according to each nation’s contribution to the environmental crisis.
In his remarks to attendees, Goyal conveyed that India extends a reliable partnership to the Global South. He reiterated themes discussed during the session, highlighting stability, space, satellite, and sustainability as focal points of discussion among officials, stressing the necessity of these dialogues in today’s world.
Addressing the need for economic fortification among partner nations, Goyal pointed out the importance of liquidity to ensure financial stability for future endeavors. He elaborated that the relationship between liquidity and lifestyle choices warrants thorough examination.
“Consumption waste is not conducive to creating a better living environment, and it is imperative for us to reconsider our lifestyles and promote a circular economy. While striving for a fulfilling lifestyle, we must remain aware of the waste we produce and our carbon footprint,” Goyal remarked.
He stressed the necessity to modify consumption habits, asserting that the environmental crisis should not solely be viewed as a consequence of carbon emissions from manufacturing processes. Instead, it should be considered in light of the carbon footprint associated with consumption.
The Minister also highlighted that inclusivity should be at the center of all global development initiatives. He asserted that innovation, industry, infrastructure, investment, and initiative are crucial for fostering inclusivity among nations. He further indicated the need to enhance global trade and tourism among partner nations to promote growth and inclusivity. Additionally, he underscored the role of energy as a primary driver of economic advancement, stating that energy will be pivotal for the future.
Reflecting on the summit, Goyal noted that collaboration among partner nations can convey a message of unity to the global community. He reaffirmed that India has always advocated for peace and open dialogue. He advised that diplomacy, as encouraged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, must be prioritized to address the geopolitical challenges currently confronting the world, and that partnering countries should align their interests to achieve shared peace and prosperity, he concluded.
