World leaders gathered at the 19th G20 Summit for a significant moment. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Chinese President Xi Jinping posed for a family photo. The picture, taken after launching the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, symbolized global cooperation. Randhir Jaiswal, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, called it “a photo for posterity.” He posted on X, “The #G20 leaders together for ‘Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.’”
A photo for posterity!
The #G20 leaders together for ‘Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet’. pic.twitter.com/xSQ6gRxmmB
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) November 18, 2024
Prime Minister Modi praised Brazil’s push to form the Global Alliance. He stressed the urgent need to address the food, fuel, and fertiliser crises. These issues, he noted, heavily impact the Global South. “We support Brazil’s initiative for a ‘Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty.’ This is an important step towards implementing the Deccan High-Level Principles for Food Security,” he said.
During the session on Social Inclusion and the Fight Against Hunger and Poverty, Modi shared India’s achievements. Over the last decade, India lifted 250 million people out of poverty. The government now provides free foodgrains to over 800 million people. Additionally, more than 550 million benefit from the world’s largest health insurance scheme. “Now, 60 million senior citizens, over the age of 70, will also be eligible for free health insurance,” Modi announced.
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s efforts to promote women-led growth. He emphasized that empowering women drives sustainable development. These efforts, he added, ensure better social inclusion and economic progress.
Modi urged leaders to prioritize the Global South. He explained how global conflicts worsen food, fuel, and fertiliser crises in these regions. “Our discussions can only succeed if we consider the challenges and priorities of the Global South,” he said.
India continues to advocate for fair representation in global governance. Modi pointed to the African Union’s permanent G20 membership as a key step. “We will continue to reform global governance institutions,” he assured.
The G20 Summit underscored unity and collaboration. The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty shows a shared commitment to tackling critical global challenges. Leaders aim to create a just, sustainable world for all.
