Hollande welcomes Modi at CoP 21

Paris, Nov 30: French President Francois Hollande on Monday welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as world leaders gathered here for the inauguration of the CoP 21 climate summit.

"On a chilly November morning, Modi is welcomed by President Hollande," external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup tweeted.

Modi will address the opening session of the Conference of Parties (CoP) 21 on Monday evening after inaugurating an Indian pavilion.

Modi, who arrived in Paris on Sunday, is also to hold several bilateral meetings, following the opening of the plenary session by Hollande.

Modi's bilateral meetings include one with US President Barack Obama.

The Indian pavilion showcases the country's harmony with nature, environment and commitment to mitigate climate change.

Modi is to launch a 122-country solar alliance with Hollande.

"President @fhollande and I will jointly host a meeting of International Solar Alliance," Modi said ahead of his departure from New Delhi on Sunday.

Modi will also attend 'Mission Innovation' hosted by the US president.

IANS