The Republic of India and the Republic of Korea, hereafter referred to as "the two sides,” agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation to address global sustainability challenges through practical collaboration in climate change, maritime and Arctic issues.
As environmentally responsible nations, the two sides reaffirmed their commitment to fulfill the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with respect to environment in an integrated manner. To achieve this, the two sides decided to promote cooperation on environmental matters and climate change, including the sustainable management of natural resources including land, air, water, biodiversity, and wastes.
Climate Change Cooperation
Reaffirming their support for the rules-based international order and their commitment to the Paris Agreement, the two sides recognised the critical importance of enhancing climate action to address the unprecedented climate crisis that threatens sustainability of humanity and nature.
In this context, the two sides welcomed the conclusion of an MOC under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement, which establishes a cooperative approach for investment-driven mitigation projects, advances the achievement of their respective Nationally Determined Contributions, and further strengthens their strategic partnership in the area of climate action. The two sides will promote cooperation on climate change issues including carbon market, the Article 6.2 cooperative approach, renewable energy and low-carbon technologies.
Environmental Cooperation and Sustainable Development
As environmentally responsible nations, India and the ROK decided to pursue institutional cooperation through an MOU on Cooperation in the Field of Climate and the Environment. The Indian side welcomed the ROK joining as a member of International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ROK side welcomed India joining as a member of the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI).
Oceans and Marine Sustainability
Recognising the importance of the oceans for economic development, ecological balance, and food security, the two sides agreed to expand cooperation in marine science, sustainable fisheries, coastal ecosystem protection, and marine pollution prevention.
The two sides will enhance collaboration in the blue economy and promote closer exchanges between scientific institutions and maritime agencies in both countries.
Arctic Research and Polar Cooperation
India and the ROK noted their growing engagement in Arctic research and scientific cooperation. The two sides recognised the Arctic as an important region for advancing understanding of climate change and agreed to expand cooperation in the Arctic, including Arctic science and Arctic shipping.
The two sides will promote closer collaboration between their respective Arctic research institutions and explore opportunities for joint research initiatives, scientific exchanges, and participation in international polar research programmes.
Way Forward
The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing practical cooperation that contributes to sustainable development and climate action.
India and the ROK expressed confidence that the expanded cooperation outlined in this joint statement will contribute to the development of innovative and scalable solutions that can support sustainable development in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
