Informal HOD meeting
30th June 2026 to 3rd July 2026
Nairobi Kenya
Plenary 30th June 2026
Thank you Chair.
In the interest of brevity of time and at the risk of repetition, allow me underscore following key points on behalf of my delegation.
India reiterates its firm position that all decisions under this process must be taken by consensus. This is essential to ensure collective ownership and sustained commitment to the instrument.
We underscore that the scope of the instrument must remain focused strictly on addressing plastic pollution, in line with UNEA resolution 5/14. It should avoid overlap with other international frameworks, including those under the WTO and WHO, and must be clearly defined.
Although this meeting is conceptual, the process must remain Member State-driven. Summaries prepared by Co-Facilitators should accurately capture the views expressed.
We also seek clarity on how discussions outside the clusters, particularly on scope and decision-making, will be reported back and recorded.
On substance, India does not support provisions aimed at capping or regulating the production of primary plastic polymers, given their implications for the right to development. We also do not support the inclusion of global lists with phase-out timelines under plastic products.
Implementation must be country-driven, taking into account national circumstances and guided by the Rio Principles, including common but differentiated responsibilities. India has already taken ambitious actions by banning single use plastics and implementing extended producer responsibility on plastic packaging.
Provision of adequate financial resources, technology transfer, and capacity-building support for developing countries is critical. In this regard, we emphasize the need for a dedicated multilateral fund to meet incremental costs of implementation.
We recognize that while plastic pollution is a serious global challenge requiring collective action, plastics also play an important role in development. The instrument must therefore strike a balance between preventing environmental leakage and safeguarding sustainable development, particularly for developing economies.
We are at a critical juncture in these negotiations. Progress will depend on mutual trust and a process that is fair, transparent, inclusive, and reflective of national circumstances and capabilities, particularly of developing countries.
India remains committed to engaging constructively towards a balanced and effective outcome.
I thank you.
