India's Commitment to Solar Energy Amid US Withdrawal from Global Organizations
India's Ongoing Collaboration with the International Solar Alliance
New Delhi: India is set to maintain its collaboration with the International Solar Alliance (ISA), despite the recent announcement from the US regarding its withdrawal from 66 international organizations, including the ISA, which comprises 125 member nations.
A senior official confirmed that the ISA will persist in its mission to assist member countries in tackling shared challenges related to solar energy expansion, aligning with their specific requirements to ensure universal energy access.
The ISA aims to continue its efforts with member nations, particularly focusing on Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States, by fostering solar energy development, securing financing, enhancing capacity, and mitigating risk perceptions.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump enacted an executive order halting US support for various organizations, agencies, and commissions after a comprehensive review of the US's involvement and funding in international entities, including those linked to the United Nations.
The Trump administration has distanced itself from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and other climate-focused organizations.
Experts have indicated that the US's exit represents a significant setback in the global battle against climate change, given that the US is the largest emitter of pollutants and the world's leading economy.
The UNFCCC, established in 1992 among 198 nations to financially assist climate change initiatives in developing countries, serves as the foundational treaty for the pivotal Paris climate agreement. Trump has previously labeled climate change as 'a hoax' and supports increased fossil fuel production.
Additional organizations from which the US will withdraw include the Carbon Free Energy Compact, the United Nations University, the International Cotton Advisory Committee, and several others.
Moreover, the Trump administration has also pulled out from the UN Population Fund, which provides global sexual and reproductive health services, accusing the agency of engaging in 'coercive abortion practices' in nations like China.