India will stand by the Global South during its G20 Presidency

As it assumes its G-20 Presidency, India has said that it would stand by the Global South and uphold its pledge to implement the UN-backed Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

At the first Sherpa Meeting of India’s G20 Presidency, which began in Udaipur on Sunday, it was reasserted that in spite of facing several global challenges, India will advocate a sense of oneness for all and find solutions collectively with other nations. There was also focus on India’s stand as a voice for the global south.

India’s innovative approaches, tools and experiences in areas such as digital transformation especially ‘data for development’, just green transition, women-led development, and economic growth for SDGs offer a variety of good practices and lessons learned, from which other nations can benefit to address their own challenges to SDG acceleration.

Chaired by G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, the four-day gathering of the Sherpas of G20 members, invited countries and international organisations, sets the stage for important conversations on some of the most pressing issues, including technological transformation, green development and LiFE, spotlighting women-led development, accelerating implementation of the SDGs, facilitating inclusive and resilient growth, and multilateral reforms.

Kant stressed on India’s belief that every crisis is an opportunity and leadership is about finding path breaking solutions in the midst of crisis. He focused on the onerous responsibility on all G20 sherpas to give shape to a new future.

The meeting also sets the tone and agenda for future meetings, during which, India will have the opportunity to convene discussions on shared global priorities with G20 members and guests.

As PM Modi in Bali last month, India’s Presidency will be inclusive, ambitious, decisive and action-oriented, and with a focus on collective action. In keeping with India’s G20 Presidency motto ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and the theme ‘One Earth. One Family. One Future’, the discussions will focus on finding holistic and harmonious solutions to prevailing challenges.

The first Sherpa meeting will also offer the delegates a unique ‘Indian experience’ through cultural performances, art exhibitions, and excursions to various destinations including locations such as the Kumbhalgarh Fort – a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Ranakpur Temple Complex.

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