The 18th G20 Summit recently concluded in New Delhi, India, marking the country’s inaugural hosting of this event on September 10, 2023. The summit’s central theme, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” draws inspiration from ancient Sanskrit texts and underscores the commitment to sustainable development.
India successfully secured consensus on the New Delhi Declaration. This achievement involved adjusting the stances of the US and EU regarding Russia and placing a strong emphasis on UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), climate action, green development initiatives, multilateral financing, digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), and international taxation, among other important issues.
The Economic Times Report G20: Together for common good explains that the G20, originally formed in 1999 after the Asian financial crisis, has evolved to address financial and economic issues while adding additional topics such as trade, sustainable development, health, agriculture, energy, environment, climate change, and anti-corruption over the years. The G20 Summit is held annually with a rotating presidency, and in 2023, India hold the presidency. The group does not have a permanent secretariat and is supported by the previous, current, and future holders of the presidency, known as the troika. In 2023, the troika consists of Indonesia, India, and Brazil. India’s presidency theme for G20 2023 is ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future.’ The G20 operates through the Sherpa track, which includes carefully chosen representatives of heads of state handling preparation work, and 13 working groups under the Sherpa track. Initiatives like the Research and Innovation Initiative Gathering (RIIG), Space Economy Leaders Meeting (SELM), G20 EMPOWER (Empowerment and Progression of Women’s Economic Representation), and G20 Chief Scientific Advisors Roundtable (CSAR) focus on various aspects, including science, technology, innovation, space economy, women’s leadership, and more. The G20 also monitors funds, including macroeconomic issues, financial stability, financial reforms, and emergency medical care, through working groups and deputies for finance ministers, finance, and central banks. Engagement groups, including Business20, Civil20, Labour20, Parliament20, Science20, SAI20, Startup20, Think20, Urban20, Women20, and Youth20, provide input from non-government participants.
The Indian Express in its article What is the G20 logo and its significance? (September 7, 2023) explains the G20 logo for the 2023 summit in New Delhi features vibrant colours inspired by India’s national flag—saffron, white, green, and blue. It shows the link of the Earth with the lotus, India’s national flower, symbolising growth amid challenges and reflecting India’s pro-planet approach to life. The lotus represents hope and resilience in the face of crises, and in Indian culture, both the goddesses of knowledge and prosperity are associated with the lotus. The seven petals of the lotus in the logo represent the seven continents and the universal language of music’s seven notes, symbolising harmony and diversity.
The G20 theme, ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—One Earth, One Family, One Future,’ is drawn from the ancient Sanskrit text of the Maha Upanishad and emphasises the interconnectedness of all life on the Earth. It aligns with India’s call for a renewable energy revolution and a cleaner, greener future. The theme also spotlights LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) and environmentally sustainable choices at both individual and national levels. Together, the logo and theme convey India’s G20 Presidency’s message of striving for just and equitable global growth. (September 11, 2023)
The Wire in its article Five Keys Takeaways from the G20 Summit in Delhi written by Nirupama Sukamanian (Subramanian) has highlighted the five key takeaways from the summit, which included India’s diplomatic victory, a softening stance on Russia, the rise of contenders for the ‘voice of the Global South,’ the African Union’s membership, and China’s silent presence. The consensus was reached without explicitly mentioning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, preventing a breakdown of the G20 and showcasing India’s diplomatic success. The Western bloc watered down language on the war to woo India as a geopolitical partner. Secondly, the summit’s language indicated a shift in Western priorities away from Ukraine as the US seeks to strengthen alliances to counter China. Russia saw it as a victory and Ukraine expressed disappointment. Thirdly, India may claim leadership of the developing world, but Brazil, Indonesia, and South Africa played a significant role in achieving consensus. Each of these countries has its own ambitions and priorities on the global stage. Fourthly, the African Union’s entry into the G20 is a significant outcome of the summit. Its impact will depend on how it can align the interests of its diverse member countries. At last, China’s President Xi Jinping’s absence and Premier Li Qiang’s low-key participation underlined the ongoing geopolitical divide, with India at the centre. China signed the consensus but maintained a reserved stance on the Delhi Declaration.
The Economic Times in its report “G20 summit 2023 Highlight” (September 9, 2023) mentions major take aways from G20. The G20 summit in New Delhi had several key moments. The G20 extended a warm welcome to the African Union as its newest member, marking a significant diplomatic milestone. G20 leaders remained divided over the Ukraine conflict, with Russia’s absence and a toned-down statement addressing the situation. G20 leaders could not reach an agreement on phasing out fossil fuels, but they endorsed tripling global renewable energy capacity and acknowledged the need to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. A diverse coalition unveiled ambitious plans for a modern-day Spice Route connecting Europe, the Middle East, and India, including railways, ports, and data networks, as an alternative to China’s infrastructure investments. The New Delhi Declaration was adopted unanimously with 112 outcomes, launching the Global Biofuels Alliance and announcing a mega India-Middle East-Europe shipping and railway connectivity corridor.
The Hindu Businessline in its article G20 leaders launch Global Biofuel Alliance September 10, 2023 written by Rishi Ranjan Kalla explains that the G20 leaders have launched the Global Biofuel Alliance (GBA), a coalition of over 30 countries and international organisations aimed at promoting the adoption of biofuels and expanding bioenergy access in emerging economies. This initiative aligns with India’s positive agenda as G20 President and demonstrates the action-oriented nature of its leadership. The GBA’s members include 19 countries and 12 international organisations, with a focus on sustainable biofuel development and deployment. It will facilitate capacity-building, technical support, policy sharing, and the development of internationally recognised standards to incentivise biofuel adoption and trade. The alliance is expected to strengthen India’s global position and create new business opportunities in the bio-energy sector while addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable practices.
The Indian Express in its article G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration: Sense of the consensus (September 11, 2023) written by Shubhajit Roy explains that the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, addressed the Ukraine-Russia conflict. This consensus was reached through painstaking negotiations, guided by Sherpa Amitabh Kant, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. While not condemning Russia, the declaration reaffirmed principles of territorial integrity and a just peace. India played a crucial role in facilitating this consensus.
The declaration is structured differently, with a preamble followed by ten chapters covering various themes. It addresses economic growth, sustainable development goals, healthcare, green development, technological transformation, gender equality, counterterrorism, and more. India’s G20 Presidency facilitated the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20, making it more inclusive. The summit also projected a strong commitment to future presidencies, including Brazil in 2024, South Africa in 2025, and the US in 2026. The successful exercise demonstrated the democratisation of diplomacy by taking the G20 to the people through over 200 meetings in 60 cities across India.
The Indian Express in its article African Union in G20: A look at the G20’s latest member (September 10, 2023) written by Alind Chauhan explains the African Union (AU) has been admitted as a new member of the G20, marking a significant development in the ongoing 18th G20 heads of State and government summit in New Delhi. The AU is an intergovernmental organisation consisting of 55 member states in Africa, established in 2002 to promote an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent.
The formation of the AU was preceded by the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which primarily focused on supporting the liberation of colonised African nations. The OAU contributed diplomatic and logistical aid to liberation movements across the continent, ultimately leading to many African countries gaining independence.
The AU, on the other hand, concentrates on fostering unity and solidarity among African nations, promoting political and socio-economic integration, and addressing social, economic, and political challenges. It also plays a vital role in peacekeeping missions, conflict resolution, and the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the world’s largest free trade area.
However, the AU has faced challenges such as its inability to prevent coups in Africa and struggles with member countries failing to pay their dues, leading to dependence on external funding.
The inclusion of the AU in the G20 provides an opportunity for the organisation to influence global trade, finance, and investment architecture. It also gives African interests and perspectives a voice and visibility within the G20, offering new avenues for international collaboration and diplomacy.
The Indian Express in its Editorial Express View on G20 and climate action: Green step forward (September 12, 2023) explains the G20 summit in Delhi has marked a significant turning point in global climate action. Despite historical differences among member countries on shouldering the responsibility for mitigating global warming, the summit concluded with a declaration that exceeded the usual acknowledgments of the climate crisis. An agreement was reached to triple the bloc’s renewable energy capacity by 2030.
A key development was made regarding the phasing out of fossil fuels, with a recognition of the need to accelerate efforts to reduce unabated coal power, addressing the financing deadlock for the green transition. For the first time, G20 nations seem aligned on the funds required for the clean energy shift, with developing countries needing US$ 5.9 trillion by 2030 to achieve their climate goals.
Despite the ambitious target of tripling renewable energy capacities within seven years, progress has been made with 83 per cent of all power capacity added in 2022 coming from renewables. India and China are on track to meet their renewable energy commitments under the Paris Agreement.
Achieving the G20’s clean energy goals will necessitate infrastructure development and creating favourable economic environments in countries lagging in renewable energy adoption. The inclusion of the African Union in the G20 offers potential for an energy transition in the power-starved continent, supported by initiatives like the India-helmed International Solar Alliance.
Looking ahead, climate diplomats will convene in Dubai in just over two months to assess progress on the Paris Pact’s goals and make necessary adjustments. It is imperative that they build upon the momentum generated in Delhi to address the urgent climate crisis effectively.
The Hindu in its article G-20 Summit 2023 | New Delhi Declaration underlines need for more finance to arrest global warming (September 9, 2023) written by Jacob Koshy explains the G-20 Leader’s Declaration has formally recognised the substantial financial requirements for transitioning to a renewable energy economy, marking a significant shift in global finance. The Declaration notes the need for approximately US$ 5.8—5.9 trillion in the pre-2030 period for developing countries and US$ 4 trillion annually for clean energy technologies by 2030 to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
While the G-20 commits to achieving net-zero emissions, it acknowledges the principle of ‘common but differentiated responsibility,’ indicating that not all nations are required to contribute equally to the associated costs.
A longstanding dispute among developed and developing countries concerns the transfer of money and technology to support the transition to clean energy. The Declaration reaffirms the commitment to collect and transfer 100 billion dollars annually by 2020 until 2025, a goal that developed countries are expected to meet in 2023. The Declaration also recognises the need to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by 43 per cent by 2030, with global peaking required before 2025.
While the G-20 encourages tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030 and doubling energy efficiency improvements voluntarily by 2030, it does not outline specific steps to transition away from coal, a primary energy source for many G-20 nations. Experts emphasise the importance of time commitments and increased investments, particularly for developing countries to achieve their climate goals. The net-zero target requires substantial financial support and enhanced commitments to be successful.
The Indian Express in its article How the G20 declaration on health includes India’s three priorities and gives a digital push (September 11, 2023) written by Anonna Dutt mentions during India’s G20 presidency, three critical health priorities were successfully addressed in the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration. These priorities encompassed strengthening health systems, emphasising the enhancement of primary health care, the health workforce, and essential health services with the goal of surpassing pre-pandemic standards in the next two to three years. The G20 also recognised the importance of a ‘One Health’ approach, uniting efforts to track diseases in animals, plants, and humans while combatting antimicrobial resistance. India’s launch of the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH) aimed to facilitate the sharing of scalable digital health solutions among member states under the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite the absence of consensus on a proposed US$ 200-million fund, several non-profits committed to the initiative. India further contributed its digital platforms, such as CoWIN, e-Sanjeevani, and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, as digital public goods. An interim platform for equitable access to medical countermeasures during pandemics was also promoted, albeit with concerns that it may favour G7 countries holding numerous patents. This interim platform seeks to bridge the gap until a legally binding pandemic treaty is established. India’s G20 presidency additionally advocated for integrating evidence-based traditional medicine practices with modern medicine, hosting a global summit on traditional medicine. The outcome document recognised the potential of traditional and complementary medicine practices in public health systems, provided they undergo rigorous scientific validation. However, concerns persist regarding data protection and privacy in digital health initiatives, along with challenges in ensuring equitable access to medical countermeasures through the interim platform.
The Indian Express in its article G20 at Rajghat: United in voice for peace, tributes to the Mahatma (September 11, 2023) written by Divya A explains that the G20 Summit in Delhi not only celebrated the New Delhi consensus but also demonstrated a united front for world peace at Rajghat, where visiting heads of state paid their respects to Mahatma Gandhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed leaders with hand-spun khadi stoles, emphasising the significance of Sabarmati Ashram, a symbol of India’s freedom struggle. Notable leaders including US President Joe Biden, UK PM Rishi Sunak, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, and others observed a moment of silence and laid wreaths at the memorial. This symbolic act emphasised unity and the timeless ideals of peace, compassion, and non-violence that Gandhi represents. The G20 leaders then signed the Peace Wall before proceeding to the Bharat Mandapam for the summit’s proceedings. Brazilian President Lula da Silva, deeply moved by his visit, hailed Mahatma Gandhi as his role model and drew parallels between Gandhi’s non-violent struggle and his own political journey.
The Indian Express in its article Gender equality-related para in leaders’ declaration is in alignment with Saudi 2030 vision: Top delegate (September 11, 2023) written by Amrita Nayak Dutta explains the commitment to gender equality in the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration aligns with Saudi Arabia’s 2030 Vision, which has specific targets for gender inclusion and empowerment. Dr Miznah Alomair, Head of Delegation for W20 Saudi, emphasised the importance of women’s inclusion, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when recognising women’s roles in fighting the pandemic and their inclusion in national and global response policies was crucial. Saudi Arabia has implemented significant reforms, including women’s driving rights, anti-harassment laws, and equal opportunities in the workplace, which have positively impacted women’s economic and social empowerment. Despite the progress made, Dr Alomair acknowledged that more work remains to be done for women’s empowerment and advancement in Saudi Arabia. The country’s 2030 Vision outlines specific targets for women’s inclusion and empowerment, and the government continues to work towards transforming the nation and increasing women’s participation in leadership roles.
The Indian Express in its article G20’s culture unites all campaign: Shared heritage, mutual respect (August 01, 2023) written by Govind Mohan mentions that the Culture Working Group (CWG) under India’s G20 Presidency achieved a Guinness World Record for the ‘largest display of Lambani items’ as part of the ‘Culture Unites All’ campaign. Nearly 450 women craftspersons created over 1,755 Lambani embroidered patches in Hampi, highlighting the traditional art on a global stage. This initiative aims to support local economies, preserve cultural traditions, and promote an environmentally conscious lifestyle. The Lambani patchwork embroidery, with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, serves as a significant source of livelihood for the Lambani community. It also highlights shared global heritage and the co-existence of diverse culture. The ‘Culture Unites All’ campaign seeks to foster inclusivity, harmony, and sustainable development through cultural exchange. The creative sector contributes significantly to economies and cultural identities, showcasing centuries-old traditions like kantha, kashida, phulkari, and chikankari in India. India aims to utilise the campaign as a catalyst for building consensus and achieving tangible outcomes in G20 meetings.
The Week in its article G20 summit helps promote India’s cultural soft power (September 10, 2023) written by Meenakshi Leekhi describes the conclusion of the fourth and final G20 Culture Working Group (CWG) meeting in Varanasi, India, as part of India’s efforts to promote its cultural soft power to member countries. The meetings were strategically held in cities like Khajuraho, Hampi, and Bhubaneswar to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage.
India outlined four thematic priorities for the CWG: protection and restitution of cultural property, harnessing living heritage for sustainability, promoting cultural and creative industries, and leveraging digital technologies for cultural protection and promotion.
The outcome document, called the Kashi Culture Pathway, emphasises the return and restitution of cultural property as an ethical imperative and the need for a global coalition against illicit trafficking. It also addresses issues like over-commercialisation and intellectual property rights related to living heritage.
Member states committed to strengthening preventive measures and regulations for online trade of cultural property, including implementing international standards, knowledge sharing, and reinforcing anti-money laundering regulations. The consensus includes strengthening institutional and policy frameworks to leverage living heritage for sustainable development, supporting international agreements, heritage preservation, language transmission, and the use of digital technology. The article highlights India’s successful efforts to showcase its cultural diversity and promote its voice on the global stage through the G20 CWG meetings.
The Indian Express in its article Mona Lisa to Magna Carta, G20 venue to show 29 nations’ heritage (September 4, 2023) written by Divya A explains the G20 Summit venue in India, Bharat Mandapam, will showcase art and culture from all 29 participating countries, both physically and digitally. Each country was asked to submit five objects considered cultural masterpieces or of historical significance in various categories, including ‘object of cultural significance,’ ‘iconic cultural masterpiece,’ ‘intangible cultural heritage,’ ‘natural heritage,’ and ‘artifact related to democratic practices’. The exhibition will feature items like the Magna Carta from the UK, a copy of India’s Panini Ashtadhyayi, and iconic pieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Gutenberg Bible in digital form. The Culture Corridor-G20 Digital Museum will be unveiled during the summit and later open to the public as a collaborative legacy project.
The Economic Times in its article Konark to Nalanda: India’s architectural heritage takes centre stage at G20 Summit (September 10, 2023) describes that a replica of the historic Nalanda University, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bihar, served as the backdrop for a ceremonial dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. G20 event welcomed various heads of state, world leaders, and their spouses at the Bharat Mandapam venue. Nalanda University symbolises values that are fundamental to democracy, such as diversity, meritocracy, freedom of opinion, group governance, autonomy, and knowledge sharing.
Additionally, the Sun Temple at Konark, another UNESCO World Heritage Site was the centre of attraction of the venue for its representation of India’s historical wisdom and architectural brilliance, particularly through the iconic Konark Wheel. This wheel signifies time, ‘Kalachakra,’ advancement, and ongoing change, serving as a potent symbol of democratic values and commitment to social progress.
In the Bharat Mandapam, an array of artistic pieces, included the ‘Surya Dwar’ sculpture installation featuring legendary horses associated with the Sun god, highlights India’s cultural heritage and that of other G20 member nations and invited countries through a designated ‘Culture Corridor.’ G20 event showcases the rich tapestry of India’s cultural and historical contributions on the world stage.
India Today in its article Xi Jinping’s absence from G20 signals hurdles for border resolution in Ladakh (September 10, 2023) written by Abhishek Bhalla and Manjeet Negi mentions Chinese President Xi Jinping’s potential absence from the G20 Summit in New Delhi is seen as a diplomatic snub, raising concerns about the trajectory of India-China relations and the resolution of the Ladakh border dispute. Despite India’s efforts to engage in dialogue, China’s reluctance to discuss the Ladakh issue indicates a certain level of competitiveness and ongoing challenges in bilateral ties. The absence of President Xi from the G20 Summit highlights the complexities of the situation and the potential for continued tensions between the two nations.
The Indian Express article Domestic woes, friction with the US, or to snub India? Behind Xi Jinping’s no-show at G20 summit (September 8, 2023) written by Hemant Adlakha explains Chinese President Xi Jinping’s absence from the G20 Summit in New Delhi has triggered a range of interpretations, both at home and abroad. China’s foreign ministry made a last-minute announcement that Premier Li Qiang would represent the country at the summit without providing any explanation for Xi’s non-attendance. Analysts have put forth several possible reasons for Xi’s decision, including the potential to snub India, avoid one-on-one meetings with US President Joe Biden, address domestic economic challenges, and more. India’s response to Xi’s absence has been measured, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasizing that countries have the prerogative to select their representatives. The US media has hinted at Xi’s desire to evade a direct meeting with President Biden due to the previous acrimony following their encounter at the G20 Bali Summit in 2022. Internal factors, including political pressures and economic challenges influenced by US policies of ‘de-sinicisation,’ may have contributed to Xi’s decision. Chinese experts offer varying interpretations, with some focusing on external factors such as diplomatic tensions with India and the declining influence of the G20, while others point to internal challenges and political opacity as sources of uncertainty. Xi’s conspicuous absence is being seen by some, including former Indian Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran, as an unusual diplomatic move that could carry negative implications for China’s global leadership style. Ultimately, the exact reasons for Xi’s non-attendance remain speculative and continue to generate discussion both in China and internationally.
An article of BBC news G20: China says Delhi declaration sent a positive signal (September 12, 2023) written by Zoya Mateen explains after G20 summit China has praised the joint declaration by G20 leaders in Delhi, describing it as a ‘positive signal’ to the world. China noted that the statement reflected its views and highlighted the G20’s collective effort to address global challenges and promote development. While several countries, including the UK and the US, have also praised the joint statement, Ukraine expressed disappointment, as it avoids condemning Russia for its war against Ukraine.
The Indian Express article For France, G20 confirms isolation of Russia, condemns war (September 11, 2023) written by Amrita Nayak Dutta mentions that French President Emmanuel Macron praised India’s G20 Presidency as a ‘very important positive momentum’ in a fragmented world. He states that the G20 highlights the isolation of Russia due to the war in Ukraine. The G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration did not explicitly mention Russian aggression but called on all States to refrain from the use of force to seek territorial acquisition against the sovereignty of any State.
During a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi, Macron emphasised the importance of preserving global balances, resisting fragmentation, and working together to provide solutions to global issues. India and France reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defence cooperation, including advanced defence technologies and platforms, with a focus on the Indo-Pacific region. France also reiterated its support for India’s membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group.
In India-France strategic partnership, the two leaders discussed progress in various areas, including defence, space, nuclear energy, digital public infrastructure, critical technology, climate change, education, and people-to-people contacts. They also emphasised their roles as providers of solutions for the Indo-Pacific region and Africa, particularly in infrastructure, connectivity, energy, sustainability, and disaster-resilient infrastructure.
Macron congratulated Modi on the success of the Chandrayaan-3 Moon mission and highlighted the strong civil nuclear ties between India and France, including the Jaitapur nuclear plant project and cooperation on small modular reactors (SMR) and advanced modular reactors (AMR) technologies. The leaders emphasised their commitment to shaping a better global order and serving as a force for good during tumultuous times.
The Hindu article At G20, Japan backs India, not China, as bridge to Global South: Japanese experts (September 7, 2023) written by Ananth Krishnan explains one of the significant takeaways from the G20 Summit is India’s positioning as a key bridge to the “Global South” for Japan and the West. Japan sees a rivalry for leadership in the Global South between India and China and believes it is in the interest of Japan and the G7 that India plays a leading role in the Global South. This positioning has been a priority for Japan, and it sought collaboration with India as a bridge to narrow the divide on various issues between the G7 and the rest of the G20 (excluding China and Russia).
The negotiations leading up to the summit highlighted a growing divide between India and China on multilateral and global issues. This divide has emerged over the past few years, coinciding with worsening relations due to the ongoing Line of Actual Control (LAC) crisis. India and China have drifted apart on multilateral issues, including climate change and debt crises in the developing world. India has pointed to Chinese lending under the Belt and Road Initiative as a contributing factor to debt crises.
The broader challenge is how Asian countries, not just India and China, can enhance their ability to manage and influence global governance, particularly within institutions like the G20. Geopolitical factors have strained cooperation within these platforms, and communication channels between India and China have faced challenges in recent years.
The Hindu in its editorial India’s moment: on the G20 Summit outcomes (September 12, 2023) explains India’s presidency of the G20 summit was considered a major success, marked by the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration. India’s diplomatic team managed to achieve consensus between the Western G-7-EU axis and the Russia-China combine on the issue of the Ukraine War, despite initial doubts. India’s middle path policy and Prime Minister personal outreach to G20 leaders played a significant role in this success. India’s efforts to make the G20 more accessible and relevant to the wider global population were also noted. However, a virtual review meeting to be held in November will help ensure the implementation and scrutiny of decisions made during India’s G20 presidency.
The Hindu in its editorial After G20 declaration, the tasks ahead September 13, 2023 by Sharat Sabharwal analyses that India’s G20 presidency presented both challenges and opportunities amidst a shifting international order, geopolitical tensions, and economic challenges. The outcome reflects India’s growing influence and diplomatic success in overcoming hurdles like the Ukraine conflict that could have derailed the summit’s agenda. The New Delhi Declaration, spanning various topics including sustainable development, international trade, climate change, and digital infrastructure, holds promise, but its success depends on implementation.
The G20, representing a significant portion of global GDP and population, wields substantial influence. However, challenges arise during detailed discussions and in achieving voluntary commitments. The Declaration commits to addressing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), climate financing, and debt vulnerabilities in developing countries, but implementation remains a concern. The G20 aims to make global governance more inclusive and representative, but resistance to reforms in international institutions persists.
India’s G20 presidency featured extensive organisation, engagement with civil society, and emphasis on Global South issues. The inclusion of the African Union in the G20 symbolises the Global South’s importance. The newly unveiled India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor is positioned as a counter to the Belt and Road Initiative. The summit also highlighted technological transformation and digital infrastructure, showcasing India’s achievements.
While the G20 summit enhances India’s image, it is a reflection of India’s existing rise and consolidation of power. The focus now should be on further strengthening national power in a democratic environment.
The Hindu in its article G20 Summit concludes; PM Modi calls for virtual review meet in November September 10, 2023) written by Kallol Bhattacharya and Suhasini Haider explains that prime minister has proposed that the G20 convene virtually in late November to review the progress made during the recently concluded summit. The virtual meeting would coincide with the end of India’s G20 presidency. During the two-day summit, the African Union was admitted as a new G20 member, and leaders adopted a joint declaration on various issues, including the Ukraine crisis. Modi held bilateral meetings with several leaders, including Germany’s Olaf Scholz, Brazil’s Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva, and South Korea’s Yoon Suk Yeol. The summit also discussed topics such as digitalisation and artificial intelligence, with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte emphasising the importance of international cooperation in establishing rules for these technologies. India and France issued a joint statement highlighting collaboration in the Indo-Pacific and Africa in areas like infrastructure, energy, biodiversity, sustainability, and industrial projects. President Erdogan of Turkey and President Macron of France expressed support for the India-Middle East-EU transport corridor. The AU’s formal induction into the G20 was also a significant development during the summit.
The Indian Express article How India has made the G20 more inclusive (September 05, 2023) written by Samir Saran explains that India’s G20 presidency in 2023 has marked a historic shift in global governance, emphasising the theme ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ or ‘The world is one family.’ This theme underscores the interconnectedness of cultures across the globe and highlights the obligation to uplift those left behind by globalisation. Three key priorities of India’s G20 leadership stand out:
Firstly, there is a focus on democratising and decentralising the global economy. Recent geo-economic developments, such as protectionist policies in the United States and the European Union’s carbon border tax, threaten global interconnectedness. Correcting this trend and restoring the principles of inclusive global trade is a priority for the developing world.
Secondly, India aims to reform and restore global finance. Financial globalisation has been skewed towards traditional economies, neglecting emerging economies where most of the future growth is predicted. The goal is to redirect capital to regions where it can foster equitable growth on a global scale.
Thirdly, India has transformed the G20 from a technocratic summit into a people’s festival, amplifying issues that matter to billions. The inclusion of voices from marginalised groups and regions is now a central focus of the G20. This shift towards a more democratic global governance framework aims to address the concerns of activists who previously protested against global governance.
Overall, India’s G20 presidency has ushered in a new era of global governance that embraces diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability. It has empowered the Global South and reshaped its identity as a pathfinder for greener, digital, and equitable growth, marking a significant developmental legacy.
The mint’s Article “What has India achieved in its G20 presidency?” (September 10, 2023) written by Gulveen Aulakh and Gireesh Chandra Prasad, explains that India’s presidency of the G20 has achieved several significant outcomes during the summit. India successfully brought all G20 member countries to the table to address the Ukraine crisis, showcasing its diplomatic skills and role as a moderating influence. The summit issued the New Delhi Declaration, setting directions for future negotiations on key economic issues. Notably, it highlighted climate financing, with a groundbreaking commitment of US$ 5.9 trillion for green financing in developing countries. India played a pivotal role in complex negotiations on geopolitical issues, especially the Russia-Ukraine crisis. This involved over 200 hours of non-stop negotiations, 300 bilateral meetings, and 15 drafts. The decisions made during the G20 Summit are expected to have a lasting impact on the world economy. Leaders recognised the importance of addressing challenges like climate change, fragility, and conflict. India’s historical role as a moderating influence, dating back to the 1950s and 60s, proved valuable in the G20 negotiations. Prime Minister’s leadership and diplomatic efforts played a crucial role in achieving consensus among all countries. The joint declaration represents a significant diplomatic breakthrough in resolving disagreements. It emphasises adherence to the UN Charter and denounces the threat or use of force for territorial acquisition. The African Union’s inclusion as a permanent member of the G20 and India’s role in this development were significant achievements. The G20’s leadership under India’s presidency is expected to accelerate reforms in various multilateral forums, including the UN Security Council and global financial institutions, with an emphasis on more equitable resource distribution.
Overall, India’s G20 presidency showcased its diplomatic prowess, leadership, and commitment to addressing global challenges, making a significant impact on the international stage.
Here are certain articles mentioning some of the sub-meetings held before or alongside the actual G20 Summit:
The Hindu published an article, named G20 trade ministers agree to map global value chains, integrate small firms; discord over Ukraine deters communique (August 25, 2023) written by Vikas Dhoot informs that trade and investment ministers from G20 nations, responsible for 75 per cent of global trade flows, have agreed to address several critical issues. However, discussions on the Ukraine conflict yielded no comprehensive agreement, as China and Russia blocked a paragraph related to geopolitical issues.
The Indian Express article G20 trade meet ends: Value chains to MSMEs, G20 ministers set out priority areas (August 26, 2023) written by Aanchal Magazine explains that the ministers discussed various areas, including trade for growth and prosperity, trade and resilient global value chains, integrating micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) into global trade, logistics for trade, and World Trade Organization (WTO) reform. They unanimously agreed on the outcome document, except for one paragraph related to geopolitical issues concerning the Russia-Ukraine war. The document covers digitalisation of trade documents, strengthening global value chains, enhancing access for MSMEs, and advancing WTO reforms, among other issues.
The Hindu article Create global framework for ethical use of AI, says PM Modi at B20 Summit (August 28, 2023) written by Soumyarendra Barik describes Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the Business 20 (B20) Summit ahead of the G20 Summit, emphasised the need for a global framework to ensure the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI). He expressed concerns about algorithmic bias and its impact on society, calling for global cooperation to expand ethical AI across various sectors. Modi also called for an integrated approach to address issues related to cryptocurrencies.
An article of The Indian Express namely This G20, focus on how to make agriculture less damaging for the planet (September 04, 2023) written by Ashok Gulati mentions the Deccan High-Level Principles outlined in the Agriculture Working Group’s Outcome Document and Chair’s Summary of G20 nations. These principles encompass humanitarian assistance, nutritious food availability, climate-resilient agriculture, inclusivity in food value chains, the one health approach, innovation, and responsible investments in agriculture.
The Indian Express in the article Strong concerns over anti-India acts of separatists in Canada: PM Modi to Trudeau (September 11, 2023) written by Shubhajit Roy, Mahender Singh Manral explains during a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed ‘strong concerns’ to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the ‘continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements’ in Canada. Modi highlighted the promotion of secessionism, incitement of violence against Indian diplomats, damage to diplomatic premises, and threats to the Indian community and places of worship by such elements.
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