India officially signs on to Copenhagen accord

Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh told parliament the decision implies that India stands by the accord.

India, along with Brazil, China, South Africa, the EU and the U.S., forged the compromise at the Danish summit in December. But there was some concern earlier this year — after several countries missed an initial deadline to express support for the accord — that even the weak agreement would fall apart.

The voluntary plan to control greenhouse gas emissions includes commitments by rich countries to provide billions of dollars to help poor countries adapt to climate change.

Brazil and South Africa have also agreed to associate with the accord, Ramesh said.

Associated Press