India’s G20 Presidency Creates Unusual Forum for Global South, Says Indian High Commissioner
The Group of 20 (G20) forum, known as the premier platform for creating inclusive global growth, has taken on a unique characteristic this year under India’s presidency, according to the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami. In an interview marking India’s 77th Independence Day, Doraiswami highlighted the country’s efforts to give voice to the Global South and create an unconventional G20.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spearheaded an initiative to showcase different parts of India for each G20 meeting, culminating in the Heads of State and Government Summit in New Delhi next month. Set to be one of the largest gatherings of world leaders in India, the summit aims to steer the G20 dialogue in favor of the developing world.
Doraiswami referred to President Droupadi Murmu’s Independence Day address, in which she emphasized India’s role in nudging the G20 conversation towards the developing world. He praised India’s endeavor to create an exceptional G20, not only in terms of the showcased locations but also in terms of the agenda. From digital development to poverty alleviation and amplifying the voice of the Global South, India is committed to driving the conversation in the right direction.
One of the key themes of India’s G20 Presidency, as outlined by Prime Minister Modi, is Amrit Kaal, which looks ahead to the next 25 years leading up to India’s centenary of freedom. This vision aligns with the G20 theme of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which translates to One Earth, One Family, One Future. India aims to position itself as a developed country by the time of its centenary and believes that hosting the world’s most important politico-economic event will help achieve this goal.
As a reflection of this ambition, India has made an effort to showcase every aspect of the country during each G20 meeting. Doraiswami referred to this as a uniquely prime ministerial initiative. The goal is to organize the event with style, substance, and meticulous planning, demonstrating India’s capacity to host such an important gathering.
The G20 is an intergovernmental forum comprising the world’s major developed and developing economies. With its broad representation, the G20 has the ability to influence global GDP, trade, and population. It includes 19 countries plus the European Union and encompasses Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the UK, and the US.
Regarding British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak‘s upcoming visit to New Delhi for the G20 leaders’ summit, Doraiswami remained tight-lipped about the details, simply saying, wait and see. He mentioned that arrangements would be made around the G20 schedule, which is a tight two-day event. Expectations are high for Sunak’s first official visit to India as British Prime Minister, and it is hoped that his time there will inspire him to plan future visits.
India’s G20 Presidency is shaping up to be an extraordinary opportunity for the Global South to have a voice on the global stage. Through its unique approach to hosting the event and driving the agenda, India is striving to create inclusive growth and make a significant impact on the world. With the G20 summit just around the corner, all eyes will be on New Delhi and the outcomes of this exceptional forum.
