G20: African Union becomes member, PM Modi flags global trust deficit

NEW DELHI | Updated: 09 September, 2023 12:03 pm IST
African Union joins prestigious international forum, enhancing India's Global South leadership.

NEW DELHI: The two-day G20 Summit, hosted by India, commenced with a historic announcement today as the African Union officially became a member of the prestigious international forum, giving further boost to India’s image as the leader of the Global South.

In his opening address as the President of the G20, Prime Minister Narendra Modi – whose nameplate identified him as the leader of ‘Bharat’ – flagged the post-pandemic global trust deficit and called upon world leaders to bridge the global trust deficit and foster trust and reliance among nations.

Addressing the world leaders gathered in New Delhi, PM Modi highlighted the importance of unity in addressing pressing global challenges. He invoked the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas’ (Collective Efforts, Inclusive Growth, Trust of All) as a guiding principle for the global community.

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He stressed that it’s time for nations to come together and find comprehensive solutions to critical issues, including the divide between North and South, disparities between East and West, food and fuel management, terrorism, cyber security, health, energy, and water security.

India’s G20 presidency has symbolized inclusivity both within and outside the country, resonating with the people of India, he said, revealing that more than 60 Indian cities have hosted over 200 meetings, reflecting the spirit of ‘Sabka Saath.’

PM Modi also announced India’s proposal to grant permanent membership to the African Union in the G20, a move that received widespread support among the G20 nations.

Before commencing the formal proceedings, PM Modi expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of the G20 nations for the recent earthquake in Morocco that has claimed around 300 lives. He extended thoughts and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured individuals and assured the global community’s support for Morocco during this challenging time.

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“As the G20 President, Bharat warmly welcomes all of you. It is from the very place where we are seated that stands a pillar, approximately 2500 years old, bearing an inscription in Prakrit that reads, ‘May the welfare and happiness of all be ever ensured.’ This message was imparted to the world by the land of India millennia ago. Let us remember this message as we commence the G20 summit, with the aim of working towards the welfare and happiness of all,” said PM Modi.

He highlighted that the 21st century presents the world with a pivotal era, compelling nations to seek new solutions to age-old challenges. PM Modi emphasized the need for innovative approaches to address longstanding issues, emphasizing the importance of a human-centric approach in fulfilling global responsibilities.

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