Is India Under PM Modi Truly Championing the Global South?

New Delhi, July 12 (NationPress) India has been actively addressing the priorities of the Global South, even as it strategically engages globally to promote its national interests amid a swiftly changing international environment, as outlined in the 2024 annual report from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

India's foreign policy has showcased a blend of vibrancy and pragmatism, leading to notable accomplishments that have bolstered India's global reputation and goodwill.

The MEA emphasized the third installment of the 'Voice of Global South Summit', which was hosted virtually by India under the theme ‘An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future’.

During the event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Heads of State/Government session, proposing a 'Global Development Compact' aimed at establishing a comprehensive framework to promote sustainable development within the Global South. This compact highlights trade, capacity building, technology sharing, and financial support, with the goal of empowering the Global South while ensuring that development is both balanced and sustainable.

The Leaders’ session was succeeded by 10 Ministerial sessions, including those for Health, Youth, and Commerce/Trade Ministers. The Summit saw participation from 173 dignitaries representing 123 Global South countries, including 21 Heads of State/Government and 34 Foreign Ministers.

This event marked the first plurilateral Summit hosted by the Prime Minister following his historic third term and the formation of a new government.

The MEA stated, 'Conducted within the first 100 days of the new Government, the Summit reflected India’s commitment to advancing the collective developmental journey of the Global South, underscoring the Prime Minister's priority in engaging with leaders and nations of the Global South.'

Another notable event in 2024 was the 'Summit of the Future', held during the High-level Week of the 79th UNGA in September, which brought together various world leaders.

Prime Minister Modi addressed this Summit, advocating for India’s human-centric approach to sustainable development. He expressed solidarity with Global South nations and called for balanced regulations to ensure the safe and responsible use of technology. Modi emphasized that India is open to sharing its digital public infrastructure for the greater public good.

The Prime Minister remarked that 'reform is the key to relevance' and that 'global action must match global ambition.'

The MEA highlighted that India’s bilateral engagements with like-minded partners were complemented by proactive initiatives and leadership in both plurilateral and multilateral platforms.

'India has remained resolute in expanding its strategic autonomy, advocating meaningful reforms of multilateral institutions, addressing the priorities of the Global South, and safeguarding its security within a rules-based international order. These endeavors reaffirm India’s commitment to shaping a more equitable and inclusive global governance framework,' it stated.

Earlier in June 2024, during the Outreach Session of the G7 Summit in Italy, PM Modi emphasized that technology should be guided by a human-centric approach, showcasing India’s success in utilizing digital advancements for public service delivery.

He reiterated India's commitment to 'AI for All', promoting AI's role in driving global progress and well-being. He also highlighted the need to prioritize the concerns of the Global South, particularly Africa, recalling India's pivotal role in securing the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20.

--IAN

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