India’s G20 Leadership Summit: A Historic Turning Point in Global Diplomacy

In many remarkable ways, this year’s G20 leadership summit held in Delhi under Bharat’s presidency was truly historic. From the permanent inclusion of the African Union, with 55 member states, to the G20 group, thereupon becoming the G21, and the unanimous adoption of the G20 Delhi declaration, to the resounding message of global cooperation and technology sharing for the greater good, this summit has sent an action-oriented message to the global community like never before.

Indeed, India has just witnessed an exceptionally successful event in the form of the G20 Leadership Summit, which unfolded spectacularly in the nation’s capital earlier this September. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian diplomacy has reached new heights. India or ‘Bharat’ will remember him as a leader who changed India’s position in the world order forever. He has not only breathed new life into the Indian economy but has also reignited the nation’s pride and restored the timeless values ​​of Sanatana for the benefit of all mankind. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi can undoubtedly be considered as one of the great shapers of the New India.

India’s presidency of the G20 is different in that it has not remained confined to the hallowed halls and chambers of Lutyens’s Delhi. Instead, it has evolved into a people-centric initiative. Over the past year, since India assumed the prestigious G20 forum, scores of cities in almost every state and Union territory in India have actively participated in G20 meetings, seminars and discussions. Through this approach, India has transformed the G20 from an exclusive affair to a people’s forum, significantly raising awareness of global affairs and their importance among the Indian population.

One of the most significant achievements of this year’s G20 summit in Delhi was the inclusion of the African Union, a reform that faced opposition from many quarters. This decision, championed by India, marks its leading position among underdeveloped and developing countries. India’s initiative to include the African Union is a strategic move to make the G20 forum more representative and broader in the context of an increasingly multipolar world. India has consistently maintained that the rise of Africa is essential to global rebalancing.

India’s diplomacy is nothing short of exceptional, as evidenced by successful negotiations with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan to join the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which includes Israel. This ambitious project not only aims to provide an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in the region, but also promises to be a vector of economic integration between India, the Middle East and Europe, once completed.

What many thought was impossible became a reality at this historic summit and declaration. Western countries, China, Russia and others reached some consensus amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and simmering tensions between the West and China. The Delhi Declaration was signed without alienating Russia or the West. This underlines Bharat’s potential in terms of diplomatic skills and wisdom to lead the world towards international peace and sustainable development.

In addition, a consensus has materialised around the necessity of solving the climate crisis. This achievement marks a significant triumph not only for India but for the global community as a whole. Key concerns, including commitments to reduce fossil fuel use, increase renewable energy targets and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, were addressed.

India consistently sets benchmarks by taking bold initiatives and leading the way. At the G20 meeting in Delhi, Prime Minister Modi announced the launch of the Global Alliance for Biofuels, with 19 countries and 12 international organizations already pledging their support.

The world witnessed the valor and dexterity of the Indian leadership during this summit. The international community has also acknowledged India’s historic achievement with Chandrayaan-3. In addition, India showcased its rich cultural heritage to world leaders, prominently featuring the stunning Konarak Sun Temple and the renowned Nalanda University in the background.

The G20 leaders’ summit held in Delhi represents a historic turning point in global diplomacy. India’s lofty vision and commitment to inclusive representation present an exemplary model for the world. In the midst of daunting challenges, India has demonstrated its ability to pave the way for a brighter and more cooperative future for all nations. The message is clear: the need for global collaboration, resilience and for sharing technology for the greater good has never been more pressing, and India has a critical role to play in fulfilling that need!