Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Namaskar.

Greetings to everyone at the International Energy Agency’s Ministerial Meeting. It is significant that the IEA is marking the 50th Anniversary of its establishment. Congratulations for this milestone. I also extend my gratitude to Ireland and France for co-chairing this meeting.

Friends,

India is the world’s fastest growing major economy. Sustained growth needs energy security and sustainability. In one decade, we went from the 11th largest economy to the 5th largest. In the same period, our solar energy capacity grew twenty six fold! Our renewable energy capacity also doubled. We exceeded our Paris commitments in this regard, ahead of timelines.

Friends,

India is home to 17% of the global population. We are running some of the world’s largest energy access initiatives. Yet, our carbon emissions account for only 4% of the global total. However, we are firmly committed to combating climate change.  Ours is a collective and proactive approach. India has already led initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance. Our Mission LiFE focuses on pro-planet lifestyle choices for a collective impact. ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle’ is a part of India’s traditional way of life. India’s G20 Presidency also saw significant action on this front. The launch of the Global Biofuels Alliance was one of the highlights. I thank the IEA for their support to this initiative. 

Friends,

Inclusivity boosts the credibility and capability of any institution. 1.4 billion Indians bring talent, technology and innovation to the table. We bring scale and speed, quantity and quality to every mission. I am sure that the IEA will benefit when India plays a bigger role in it. I send my wishes for the success of the Ministerial Meeting of the IEA. Let us Leverage this platform to strengthen existing partnerships and form new ones. Let us build a cleaner, greener and inclusive world.

Thank You

Thank You very much.

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DS/VJ/AK