International relations 'to focus on low-carbon growth'

The UK's climate change minister has called for international relations between the UK and India to focus on low-carbon growth.

In his first official trip to India, Greg Barker met businesses and organisations in a bid to promote the development of "innovative solutions" to tackle the country's energy security and climate change challenges.

Both countries have already agreed to work together to help India to build up a low-carbon economy with lower carbon dioxide emissions and improved energy efficiency.

Mr Barker said: "Last year in the run up to Copenhagen the UK lectured India on climate issues, despite the fact that 450 million people still don't have electricity.

"It's now time to stop preaching, start listening and get on with practical solutions which will tackle both poverty and climate change and create real green business opportunities."

India itself pledged to reduce the emissions intensity of its economy by between 20 and 25 per cent by the year 2020.

Posted by Emily Thomas

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