NEW DELHI: In his address during the G20 Summit under India's Presidency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of transforming the global trust deficit into a foundation of trust and reliance. He highlighted that in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world faced not only a health crisis but also a trust deficit, exacerbated by conflicts. However, he urged leaders to remember that just as the world conquered the pandemic, it can also overcome this trust deficit. As the President of the G20, India called upon the global community to unite and build trust and confidence.
Modi reiterated the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas' (Together with All, Development for All, Trust of All, Efforts of All) as a guiding principle for addressing various global challenges. These challenges encompassed issues like the North-South divide, East-West disparities, food and fuel management, terrorism, cyber security, health, energy, and water security. He stressed the need for concrete solutions that would benefit future generations.
In a significant move, PM Modi invited the head of the African Union to join the G20 as a member, marking an important step toward greater inclusivity. The President of the Union of Comoros and Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Azali Assoumani, became a permanent member of the G20.
Before the Summit began, Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences for the lives lost in a Moroccan earthquake and offered India's assistance. He also welcomed world leaders, including US President Joe Biden, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, UK PM Rishi Sunak, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
Each leader was greeted against the backdrop of the Konark Wheel from Odisha, a 13th-century marvel that adorns India's national flag. The wheel's 24 spokes symbolize time, progress, and change, reflecting the resilience of democratic ideals and the commitment to societal progress.
The G20 Summit's theme for the year was “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “One Earth · One Family · One Future." This theme, chosen during India's presidency, underscored the importance of global unity and collaboration. India assumed the G20 Presidency on December 1 the previous year, marking a significant period for addressing pressing global challenges and fostering trust among nations.
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