India on Friday took the lead in articulating concerns of the developing countries in finalising approach of the Commonwealth countries in dealing with climate change ahead of the crucial Paris conference.
India argued that any ambitious statement emanating from the CHOGM should be tempered with realism as the discussions in the run up to the COP 21 at Paris have been complex and difficult and should not be overloaded at this stage.
Indian officials argued that the Commonwealth must not pre-judge outcome of the negotiations leading to Paris climate conference and that commitment of the rich nations towards small islands and poor countries must go beyond the current level, sources said.