What Did PM Modi Discuss with WTO Chief Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on G20 Sidelines?
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Synopsis
During the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg, PM Modi held a significant meeting with WTO Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, addressing critical trade issues. Their ongoing discussions emphasize India's commitment to a balanced multilateral trade framework that supports developing economies. Discover the implications of their dialogue for global trade dynamics.
Key Takeaways
- The meeting emphasizes India's active role in global trade discussions.
- Dr Okonjo-Iweala's participation highlights the WTO's focus on developing economies.
- Critical issues like food security and agricultural support were discussed.
- India advocates for balanced multilateral trade regulations.
- The interaction reflects ongoing dialogues between India and global economic institutions.
New Delhi/Johannesburg, Nov 22 (NationPress) On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a discussion with World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala during the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg. The Prime Minister conveyed a brief message regarding their meeting through a post on X.
"Had a conversation with WTO Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg," he noted.
Details regarding their conversation are yet to be disclosed; however, it occurred amidst significant trade-related topics dominating both the G20 agenda and the ongoing discussions within the WTO. India has been active in the WTO dialogue concerning agricultural support, food security, fisheries subsidies, e-commerce regulations, and the reform of the multilateral trading system.
Dr Okonjo-Iweala has been involved in the G20 discussions as part of international organizations invited to contribute to sessions focused on global economic stability, trade facilitation, supply chain resilience, and the challenges faced by developing nations. India has consistently asserted that multilateral trade regulations should be equitable and address the needs of the Global South.
The Prime Minister and the WTO Director-General have previously met on various international platforms, particularly during India's G20 Presidency and at WTO ministerial negotiations. India has previously emphasized the necessity to protect the policy space for developing nations in areas such as public stockholding for food security and support for small farmers.
This interaction in Johannesburg occurred during a day filled with extensive bilateral and multilateral engagements for the Prime Minister amid the G20 proceedings. The summit has encompassed discussions around global economic recovery, digital transformation, reform of global institutions, sustainability objectives, and the collaboration on international supply chains.
The WTO chief has repeatedly highlighted the significance of bolstering the rules-based global trading system while ensuring that developing countries gain from global trade. India has remained engaged in ongoing WTO negotiations on subjects such as fisheries, agricultural reform, and the future of the moratorium on customs duties concerning electronic transmissions.
This brief interaction between PM Modi and Dr Okonjo-Iweala adds to the ongoing series of dialogues India has been conducting with global economic institutions at the summit.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the importance of PM Modi's engagement with WTO Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. This meeting underscores India's proactive stance in global trade discussions, advocating for the interests of developing nations. The dialogue highlights the need for a balanced approach to trade that supports food security and the welfare of small farmers, ensuring that India's voice is heard on the international stage.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of PM Modi's meeting with Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala?
The meeting aimed to discuss critical trade-related issues as part of India's ongoing engagement with the WTO, emphasizing the need for balanced multilateral trade rules.
Where did the meeting take place?
The interaction occurred on the sidelines of the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg.
What are some topics India is focusing on with the WTO?
India is focusing on agricultural support, food security, fisheries subsidies, e-commerce rules, and reforming the multilateral trading system.
Who is Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala?
Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, actively participating in discussions on global economic stability and trade facilitation.
What is India's stance on trade regulations?
India maintains that multilateral trade rules must be balanced and responsive to the concerns of developing countries, ensuring their policy space is protected.
