The Secretary-General commends today’s joint statement on climate change made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Barack Obama  announcing their support for early entry into force of the Paris Agreement.  The Secretary-General welcomes the domestic steps being undertaken by both countries to join the Paris Agreement as soon as possible, including in 2016, and their collaborative efforts to address climate change.

He is further encouraged by the resolve of India and the United States to pursue low greenhouse gas emission development strategies and successful outcomes this year to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the Montreal Protocol, the International Civil Aviation Organization Assembly, and the G20.

This joint announcement by India and the United States, which follows on the heels of the G7 Ise-Shima Leaders’ Declaration, and the historic 22 April signature ceremony for the Paris Agreement demonstrates the growing momentum towards the rapid entry into force and successful implementation of the Paris Agreement.

As of today, 177 Parties have signed, and 17 have ratified the Paris Agreement.  The Secretary-General encourages all countries to accelerate their domestic processes to join or ratify the agreement to ensure its early entry into force.