Environmental News: Media Center

WASHINGTON (November 24, 2009) -- Indian Prime Minister and President Obama delivered a joint announcement today on US-India cooperation to shift toward a clean energy economy and address global warming. The announcement took place during Prime Minister Singh’s state visit to Washington D.C.

In advance of the visit, NRDC sent a letter to President Obama calling for increased cooperation on this issue between these two leading countries.

Following is a statement by Frances Beinecke, President, Natural Resources Defense Council:

“In the lead-up to Copenhagen, these two world leaders are advancing their commitment to engage and take action to address climate change, one of the great challenges of our time. This announcement will help set the stage for both countries to curb carbon pollution and unleash investments in clean energy sources.

“Addressing climate change is in the interest of both countries. India's growing economy needs to be able to expand, but to do so in a way that is sustainable and clean. The U.S. must also take a leadership role on this issue, both internationally and at home, to re-charge our economy and prevent the worst impacts of global warming.

“As we approach Copenhagen, we need ongoing cooperation by the US, India and other key countries that will shape the path forward toward a global agreement on climate change.”