Vibrant Gujarat Summit: Narendra Modi discuses climate change, clean energy with UN chief Ban Ki-moon

GANDHINAGAR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today discussed issues relating to climate change, environment and clean energy with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.

During the meeting, held on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit here, Modi highlighted initiatives taken by his Government in the clean and renewable energy sectors, a PMO statement said.

Speaking at the Summit, the UN chief also lauded Indian government's efforts in using more renewable energy and said he hopes that all world leaders and businesses will be inspired by Gandhi's vision and teachings.

"Gujarat is a state where technology meets climate action, where entrepreneur meet clear energy, where young people meet job opportunities...

"This dynamic state has long been a cultural crossover to the world. Today, it can also be a crossroad for a new era of sustainable development," he said here on the first day of the three-day Summit.

In his fourth trip to the country as the UN Secretary General, he delivered a keynote speech at the Inaugural Session of the 7th Vibrant Gujarat Summit.

Addressing world leaders, policy makers, and representatives from the business community and academia, he stressed the need to promote inclusive and sustainable development in India and globally.

The UN chief was also to visit Mahatma Gandhi's Sabarmati Ashram as well as a solar power plant to see for himself national efforts to promote sustainable development.

Tomorrow, he will deliver the 13th Sapru House Lecture, organised by the Indian Council of World Affairs in New Delhi.

His visit to India would conclude on January 13, after his meetings with UN staff and heads of UN agencies in India.