In a statement released on the eve of the inaugural G20 summit hosted in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi invoked the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi to stress the nation’s commitment to human-centric and inclusive development. Modi articulated a hopeful vision for the summit, wherein global leaders would unite in service of the “very last person in the queue.”
Drawing upon the G20 presidency theme ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth, One Family, One Future’, the Prime Minister emphasised the notion of universal familyhood that is deeply ingrained in Indian cultural ethos. He insisted that the maxim – which translates to “the world is one family” – is more than a philosophical ideal, asserting it as a foundational principle that guides India’s approach in the international arena.
Modi highlighted a robust agenda focused on accelerating the progress of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and fortifying 21st-century multilateral institutions. The roadmap also included a Green Development Pact envisaged for a sustainable future, while prioritising futuristic sectors such as digital public infrastructure and technological transformation. The prime minister emphasised India’s active role in voicing the developmental concerns of the Global South, branding the presidency as “inclusive, ambitious, decisive, and action-oriented.”
“Gender equality, women empowerment, and world peace stand as pillars in our collective endeavour,” Modi said, noting the ambitious plans for his tenure as the chair of sessions encapsulating the ‘One Earth, ‘One Family’ and ‘One Future’ doctrine. The discussions are poised to delve into pressing global issues to foster “strong, sustainable, inclusive, and balanced growth.”
As host of the 18th summit at the iconic Bharat Mandapam, Modi underscored India’s dedication to nurturing bonds of friendship and cooperation through bilateral meetings with numerous heads of delegations and world leaders.
Anticipation builds for the weekend’s line-up of events, with special note made of a homage ceremony for Gandhi at Rajghat and a culminating dinner hosted by President Droupadi Murmu. Reflecting his unwavering confidence, Modi expressed, “It is my firm belief that the New Delhi G20 Summit will chart a new path in the human-centric and inclusive development.”
As world leaders gather in New Delhi to forge a collective vision for a sustainable and equitable ‘One Future’, the Indian Prime Minister advocates for a harmonious global family working towards the wellbeing of a ‘One Earth’. The summit, envisaged as a groundbreaking forum for international cooperation, stands on the cusp of history, with a hopeful gaze towards a united global front.
