Technology and Science09 April, 20261 min read
India Withdraws Bid to Host COP33 Climate Summit in 2028
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India withdraws its offer to host COP33 in 2028 following a review of commitments. Months of internal debate over climate commitments influenced the withdrawal decision.
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India Withdraws COP33 Bid
India has withdrawn its bid to host COP33, less than two and a half years after Modi announced the offer. An Indian official informed other nations on April 2 that the offer was being withdrawn following a review of its commitments for 2028. The decision leaves uncertainty over the host country of COP33, which will follow COP31 in Türkiye and COP32 in Ethiopia.
South Korea has been mentioned as a possible alternative, but the national government has not formally expressed interest. The withdrawal came despite preparations that had already begun, including the creation of an 11-member COP33 Cell.
Strategic and Political Pressures
Ministry sources indicated concerns about the United States stepping away from the Paris Agreement. There was a strategic concern that hosting COP would require India to mediate commitments that might conflict with its own priorities.
India had begun to argue for a development-first approach, prioritizing long-term national interest. The opposition response was swift and scathing, with Jairam Ramesh accusing the government of a brazen flip-flop.
Global and Domestic Implications
The withdrawal represents a setback for India's ambitions to position itself as a leader of the Global South. India remains the world's third-largest emitter and one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change impacts.
The decision comes just a week after India strengthened its climate commitments. The Asia-Pacific Group is now tasked with nominating a replacement host country.