India has officially withdrawn its proposal to host the COP33 Climate Summit in 2028 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This move leaves South Korea as the only remaining contender to host the high-profile global event.
Official Communication to UN Body:
The decision was formally conveyed by Rajat Agarwal, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), to the Asia-Pacific Group Chair under the UN system. The communication cited a “review of its commitments” as the reason behind India stepping back from the hosting bid.
India’s Earlier Commitment:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier announced India’s intention to host COP33 during his address at COP28 held in the UAE in December 2023. The proposal was seen as part of India’s growing leadership role in global climate negotiations.
Limited History of Hosting COP:
India has hosted the COP summit only once before—COP8 in 2002 at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi—making this withdrawal notable in the context of its climate diplomacy ambitions.
What is COP?
It is the highest decision‑making body under the UNFCCC, where Parties meet annually to assess progress on climate goals, negotiate commitments, and mobilise climate finance and action. It brings together countries annually to:
- Review progress on climate goals
- Negotiate emission reduction commitments
- Mobilize climate finance
- Strengthen global climate action
Previous COP Hosting: India previously hosted only COP8 in 2002 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, Delhi.
Global Implications:
India’s withdrawal shifts focus to South Korea, which is now likely to host COP33 in 2028. The development also raises questions about evolving geopolitical priorities and resource commitments in global climate governance.