Modi’s Masterstroke: How the G20 Summit in Delhi Showcased India’s Leadership and Innovation

The G20 summit is an annual meeting of the leaders of the world’s 20 major economies, which together account for about 80% of the global GDP, 75% of the global trade, and 60% of the global population. The summit aims to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the world, such as economic growth, trade, climate change, health, development, and security. The G20 summit in Delhi, being held on September 9-10, 2023, is the 19th edition of the summit and the first one hosted by India. It is also one of the crowning glories of Narendra Modi, the prime minister of India, who showcased his leadership, vision, and diplomacy on the global stage.

Modi’s achievements at the G20 summit can be summarized in four main aspects: inclusion, innovation, cooperation, and reform.

First, Modi championed the cause of inclusion by inviting the African Union (AU) to become a permanent member of the G20 , giving it the same status as the European Union (EU). This was a historic move that recognized the importance and potential of Africa as a partner in global development and stability. Modi also emphasized the need to include the voices and aspirations of the Global South, especially in addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and inequality. He proposed a Global Vaccine Action Plan to ensure equitable and affordable access to vaccines for all countries. He also launched a Global Solar Grid initiative to harness solar energy for sustainable development.

Second, Modi showcased India’s innovation and technological prowess by hosting a Digital Exhibition on Innovation for Sustainable Development at the summit venue. The exhibition displayed India’s achievements and best practices in various fields such as renewable energy, digital governance, health care, education, agriculture, and urban planning. Modi also highlighted India’s role as a leader in digital transformation and innovation by announcing that India will host the first-ever G20 Digital Summit in 2024. He also invited the G20 leaders to join India’s International Space Station project, which aims to launch a modular orbital platform by 2030.

Third, Modi fostered cooperation and dialogue among the G20 members and other stakeholders by holding bilateral and multilateral meetings with several leaders. He met with US President Joe Biden and discussed ways to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries in areas such as defense, trade, energy, climate change, and counter-terrorism. He also held talks with leaders from Australia, Japan, Russia, Germany, France, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, South Africa, Brazil, Turkey, and others. He also participated in several side events such as the BRICS Leaders’ Meeting, the Quad Leaders’ Meeting, and the COP26 Pre-Summit Dialogue.

Fourth, Modi advocated for reform and modernization of the global governance system to make it more responsive, representative, and resilient. He called for reforming multilateral institutions such as the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organization (WTO), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank to reflect the realities and aspirations of the 21st century. He also supported the creation of a new international framework for regulating cryptocurrencies to ensure financial stability and consumer protection. He also urged the G20 to adopt a common approach to debt restructuring and relief for developing countries facing debt distress due to the pandemic.

In conclusion, Modi’s performance at the G20 summit in Delhi is exemplary and praiseworthy. He demonstrated his leadership skills, vision for global development and peace, diplomatic acumen, and innovative spirit. He also enhanced India’s image and influence as a responsible and reliable partner in addressing global challenges and opportunities. He made India proud by hosting a successful and historic summit that marked a new chapter in global cooperation.