Recognizing pollution, solid waste management and traffic as the major challenges before Delhi, chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said that his government is seeking "ideas and partnership" to transform the capital into one of the best cities of the world. Describing "corruption as a national problem", the CM cited his government's commitment to fight and rid the city of corruption. Kejriwal's statement came at a meeting with US ambassador Richard Verma when the latter called on him at Delhi Secretariat. Among issues the US ambassador discussed with the chief minister and deputy CM Manish Sisodia were corruption and women's security. To Verma's question on corruption, the CM replied, "It's a national problem. It is happening at all levels, and it's the common man who is facing the heat. During our last tenure, it came down remarkably. We are working to get rid of it." The US envoy also enquired about the anti-graft helpline. He briefed the CM on work the US Embassy carries out on several issues of social and environmental concern. Kejriwal, himself, sought his suggestions on solid waste management, clean energy, traffic, water recycling, river cleaning and pollution. "It's a huge responsibility as well as an opportunity to change the city. We are looking for ideas and partnership," said the CM.
