Prime Minister Narendra Modi's participation in the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, marks a significant moment for India's role on the global stage. While not a member of the G7, which comprises Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, India has been consistently invited as an outreach partner, underscoring its growing economic and geopolitical importance. This year's summit, hosted by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, provided a platform for PM Modi to articulate the priorities and concerns of the Global South, a role India has increasingly embraced.
PM Modi's agenda at the G7 Summit was packed with crucial discussions on global issues, including energy security, technology, and innovation. A key focus of his engagements was to emphasize the priorities of the Global South, reflecting India's commitment to representing the interests of developing nations. Since the beginning of the Ukraine crisis in February 2022, India has consistently highlighted how the war in Europe has disrupted the economies of the Global South, triggering a commodities crisis.
India's participation in the G7 Summit is particularly significant given the current geopolitical landscape. With escalating tensions in the Middle East and ongoing conflicts, India's voice as a proponent of dialogue and diplomacy is crucial. In a prelude to his address at the G7, PM Modi conveyed support for a negotiated settlement to the escalating Israel-Iran and Russia-Ukraine conflicts, reinforcing India's stance on peaceful resolution of disputes.
The G7 Outreach Summit this year is themed around “protecting our communities around the world”, “building energy security and accelerating the digital transition” and “securing the partnerships of the future”. These themes align closely with the priorities of the Global South, where issues such as climate change, sustainable development, and inclusive growth are of paramount importance. India's perspectives on these issues are invaluable, given its experience as a large developing country navigating the challenges of economic growth while striving for environmental sustainability.
Beyond addressing the G7 outreach session, PM Modi engaged in several bilateral meetings with leaders from Germany, Canada, Ukraine, and Italy. These meetings provided opportunities to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss specific country-to-country issues. Of particular interest was PM Modi's first in-person meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, seen as an opportunity to reset bilateral relations after recent tensions. Discussions were expected to cover India's concerns about the activities of pro-Khalistan elements in Canada, and Canada's interest in cracking down on transnational criminal gangs.
India's role as a voice for the Global South at the G7 Summit is not new. Over the years, India has consistently used this platform to highlight the challenges and opportunities facing developing nations. This commitment dates back to India's G20 presidency, where PM Modi championed the cause of inclusive development and climate action. Experts acknowledge that India plays a pivotal role on the world stage, especially for Western countries, in balancing China's role in the Indo-Pacific.
In conclusion, PM Modi's participation in the G7 Summit in Canada underscores India's growing global stature and its commitment to representing the interests of the Global South. As the world grapples with complex challenges ranging from geopolitical conflicts to climate change, India's voice as a proponent of dialogue, diplomacy, and sustainable development is more important than ever.
