What Did PM Modi and South African Prez Ramaphosa Discuss in Johannesburg?
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Synopsis
On November 23, PM Modi met with South African President Ramaphosa at the G20 Leaders Summit, discussing bilateral relations and avenues for cooperation in security and sustainable development. Their dialogue emphasized a human-centric growth approach and initiatives aimed at disaster resilience.
Key Takeaways
- Stronger bilateral relations between India and South Africa.
- Focus on security cooperation and people-to-people connections.
- Advocacy for a human-centric growth approach.
- Proposals for disaster risk reduction and sustainability initiatives.
- Creation of a G20 Open Satellite Data Partnership.
Johannesburg, Nov 23 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions with President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa during the G20 Leaders Summit held in Johannesburg on Sunday.
Present at the meeting were External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, MEA Secretary (Economic Relations) Sudhakar Dalela, among other officials.
This meeting aimed to not only evaluate the existing bilateral relations but also explore potential new areas of collaboration such as security cooperation and enhancing people-to-people connections.
On Saturday, President Ramaphosa extended a warm welcome to PM Modi upon his arrival for the G20 Leaders' Summit at Nasrec in Johannesburg.
During his addresses on the opening day, PM Modi emphasized the necessity for strengthened global collaboration, enhancing disaster resilience, and promoting sustainable development.
In a series of updates on X, and according to detailed statements released by the Prime Minister's Office, PM Modi advocated for a human-centric approach to growth, urging the coalition to adopt new development metrics that harmonize progress with planetary health.
In his posts, he noted that the second session of the Summit was centered around constructing a resilient world in the face of disasters and climate change, ensuring equitable energy transitions, and fortifying global food systems. He highlighted that India is proactively addressing all these aspects, working towards a future that is both inclusive and human-centric.
Reiterating India's longstanding position that significant global challenges necessitate coordinated global responses, PM Modi remarked that this belief propelled India's initiative to form the Disaster Risk Reduction Working Group during its G20 Presidency. He contended that disaster management should transition from a purely response-centric model to a development-centric one, referencing the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure as an illustrative example.
Furthermore, he proposed the establishment of a G20 Open Satellite Data Partnership, aimed at enhancing access to satellite data and analysis from G20 space agencies for developing nations, particularly in the Global South. He underscored that better access to space-based tools would support nations in sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and disaster management.
Reaffirming India's dedication to sustainability and clean energy, PM Modi introduced the G20 Critical Minerals Circularity Initiative, aimed at fostering recycling, urban mining, second-life batteries, and related innovations to secure supply chains and promote cleaner developmental pathways.
Point of View
The meeting between PM Modi and President Ramaphosa underscores India's commitment to fostering international cooperation and addressing global challenges collaboratively. It reflects a strategic approach towards enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in critical areas such as security and sustainability, aligning with national interests and global responsibilities.
NationPress
23/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the meeting between PM Modi and President Ramaphosa?
The meeting highlights the importance of bilateral relations between India and South Africa, focusing on cooperation in security and sustainable development.
What initiatives did PM Modi propose during the summit?
PM Modi proposed the G20 Open Satellite Data Partnership and the G20 Critical Minerals Circularity Initiative to enhance access to resources and promote sustainability.
How does this meeting reflect India’s foreign policy?
It illustrates India’s proactive stance in engaging with global leaders to address pressing issues like disaster resilience and climate change, aligning with its diplomatic priorities.
