As the New Delhi joined the Paris Climate Change Agreement, the United States President Barack Obama joined the world leaders to praise India.

Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin handed over the Instrument of Ratification signed by President Pranab Mukherjee, to the head of the Treaties Division, Santiago Villalpando at the UN, at a special ceremony.

The ceremony was attended by top UN officials and senior diplomats to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary.

Obama tweeted praising India, "Gandhiji believed in a world worthy of our children. In joining the Paris Agreement, PM Narendra Modi and the Indian people carry on that legacy."

PM Modi responded to Obama's tweet saying "Care and concern towards nature is integral to the Indian ethos. India is committed to doing everything possible to mitigate climate change."  

"Sabhi bharatiyo ko dhanyawad (I thank all the Indians)," Moon said in a video message on the United Nations news centre.

"Today, the government of India has demonstrated global leadership and vision by joining the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. This historic step will further India's sustainable path to growth and development," he added.

A Communique issued by the French Presidency said that, "The President of the Republic (Francois Hollande) welcomes the ratification of the Paris Agreement by India, on this symbolic day commemorating Mahatma Gandhi's birthday."

"This decision, coming after the decision of the Environment Ministers of the European Union, brings us closer to the entry into force of the Paris agreement before the end of the year," it said.

US Ambassador to India Richard Verma said, "We look forward to continuing our close friendship with India & furthering our work together on climate change and clean energy.”

“We commend Prime Minister Modi for his leadership and thank all those who have worked on the Agreement over many years."

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- Nandini