PM Modi proposes to hold a virtual session of G20 in November to take stock, passes the baton to Brazil

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who passed on the baton of G20 to Brazil today, proposed another session of the group to be held virtually in November-end. Brazil will officially take over as the G20 chair in December.

“It is my proposal that we hold another session of the G20 virtually in November- end. In that session, we can review the issues that have been agreed upon during this summit. Our teams will share the details of it with all of view. I hope all of you will join this (session),” he said. “With this, I declare the G20 summit as closed,” Modi said after officially closing the G20 chair for this year.

With the G20 slogan theme — Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, or “One Earth, One Family, One Future”, India as the chair of the group, has firmly positioned itself not only as the voice of the Global South but also as a credible influencer trying to unite the world community. Last year while unveiling the 2023 G20 summit logo and theme, Modi said that the effort should be to ensure there is only one world by removing barriers including “First World” or “Third World”.

India held the two day G20 summit amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in the absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese Premier Xi Jinping.

For India and the world, the 18th G20 summit will find a place in history with the African Union getting membership of the coveted group. Besides, the launch of the Global Biofuel Alliance and India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor, a connectivity link between the region are among the key achievements of the summit. India, importantly, also clinched a joint statement despite controversies linked to the Russia-Ukraine war.

“Together we have an opportunity to build a better future. Just energy transitions can improve jobs and livelihoods, and strengthen economic resilience. We affirm that no country should have to choose between fighting poverty and fighting for our planet. We will pursue development models that implement sustainable, inclusive and just transitions globally, while leaving no one behind,” the statement read.

Apart from the G20 members, India’s invitation to nine countries including Bangladesh as special guests have also given a clear message to the world, cementing New Delhi’s role as the voice of the Global South.

Also read: G20 Leaders’ Summit Declaration adopted, opens roadmap to advance SDG goals, green development and women’s empowerment