RS Deputy Chairman Harivansh Advocates Global South Unity at Commonwealth Assembly

Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman, Harivansh, Saturday emphasized the critical need for solidarity among Global South nations amid escalating climate challenges.

Delivering a powerful address at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) General Assembly, on the theme ‘The Commonwealth – A Global Partner,’ Harivansh underscored India’s commitment to working closely with Commonwealth member states, especially Small Island Developing States (SIDS), on climate resilience and sustainable energy initiatives.

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“Climate change is a reality which affects us all. Green Growth is our common future. In this regard, it is important for us to collaborate and cooperate with one another,” Harivansh stated. “We also need to stand by our friends in the Global South, particularly Small Island Developing States who face the worst of weather changes and their adverse effects on their societies, even threatening their existence through rising sea levels.”

He highlighted that Small States make up nearly a third of the Commonwealth family and stressed India’s awareness of their unique vulnerabilities.

“India is fully conscious of these challenges faced by Small States. We are working with many of these countries with a focus on green growth and sustainable development,” he added.

Harivansh also pointed to India’s pioneering role in the International Solar Alliance, an initiative aimed at promoting clean and affordable energy globally. He recalled India’s efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the country supplied medicines and vaccines to over 100 nations, including many Commonwealth members.

Further, he drew attention to India’s Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, which has empowered more than 200,000 officials from over 160 countries through training in civilian and defense sectors.

“Since 2014, India has provided close to 100,000 world-class capacity-building trainings and scholarships at premier institutions in India,” he noted.

Harivansh’s address reinforced India’s vision of partnership and cooperation within the Commonwealth, especially focusing on climate action, sustainable development, and capacity building as shared priorities for the future.