The G20 Summit for the year 2023 commenced in Delhi on September 9th, featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s opening address. PM Modi’s inaugural speech covered significant topics, including India’s G20 Presidency, the African Union’s (AU) permanent membership, and the emphasis on overcoming trust deficits.
Key Highlights from PM Modi’s Inaugural Address:
- African Union’s Permanent Membership: PM Modi announced the permanent membership of the African Union (AU) in the Group of 20 largest economies (G20) worldwide. This historic decision welcomed the AU as a new member of the prestigious global organization, comprising 55 nations.
- Bridge Trust Deficits: PM Modi called upon world leaders to address trust deficits resulting from conflicts and wars. Drawing parallels with the successful global fight against COVID-19, he emphasized the potential to triumph over trust deficits caused by conflicts. PM Modi stated, “If we can defeat COVID-19, we can also triumph over the trust deficit caused by the war.”
- Human-Centric Approach: PM Modi highlighted the 21st century as a pivotal time for offering innovative solutions to age-old problems. He stressed the importance of adopting a human-centric approach in fulfilling global responsibilities. Issues ranging from North-South divides, East-West disparities, food and fuel management, terrorism, cyber security, health, energy, to water security require solid solutions for future generations.
- Inclusivity and Responsibility: PM Modi reiterated the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas’ (Together with All, Development for All, Trust of All, Efforts of All) as a guiding principle. He emphasized that nations should work together to find robust solutions to various global challenges, fostering cooperation and trust among nations.
- India’s G20 Presidency: PM Modi highlighted that India’s G20 Presidency exemplified inclusivity, both within the country and on the global stage. India’s commitment to promoting cooperation among G20 nations for a brighter future was emphasized.
- Condolences to Morocco: Before the official proceedings of the G20 Summit, PM Modi expressed condolences for lives lost in an earthquake in Morocco. India offered assistance and support to Morocco during this challenging time.
The G20 Summit 2023, themed “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “One Earth · One Family · One Future,” reflects the spirit of global unity and collaboration. India assumed the G20 Presidency on December 1, 2022, and organized approximately 200 meetings related to the G20 across the country to address various priority areas.
The G20 comprises Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the UK, the US, and the European Union (EU). The inclusion of the African Union enhances the group’s diversity and global representation.