Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asserted that it is entirely natural for India to host G20 meetings across all regions of its vast territory, and he has firmly brushed aside objections raised by China and Pakistan regarding the hosting of these meetings in the regions of Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh.
China, a member of the G20, and Pakistan, not a member of the bloc, had expressed reservations about the decision to hold one of the events in Kashmir, a region they regard as "disputed." Additionally, China has a longstanding dispute with India over Arunachal Pradesh.
During an interview with the news agency PTI, the Prime Minister unequivocally dismissed these objections and reaffirmed India's sovereign right to host meetings on its own soil.
Furthermore, PM Modi highlighted India's ambition to host G20 events in various states, union territories, and cities across the country, emphasizing the nation's potential to welcome, host, and engage with the international community. He pointed out that there used to be a prevailing attitude of conducting everything in the capital, Delhi, but his government has embarked on a path of decentralization and inclusivity.
By the conclusion of India's G20 presidency, PM Modi indicated that more than 220 meetings would have taken place in 60 cities across all 28 states and eight union territories. He also mentioned that over 100,000 participants from approximately 125 different nationalities would have the opportunity to witness the diverse talents and capabilities of the Indian people.
PM Modi also shared his optimism about India's economic trajectory, envisioning India as the third-largest economy globally by 2030. He referred to the "Amritkaal" era, emphasizing his belief that India will attain developed country status by 2047. He noted that India's historical prominence in the global economy was briefly diminished due to colonial influences, but the nation is now experiencing a resurgence. He highlighted India's remarkable ascent from being the 10th largest economy to the 5th largest in less than a decade, demonstrating India's commitment to economic progress.
Moreover, PM Modi emphasized that the period until 2047 presents a significant opportunity for India, and the nation is fully aware of the magnitude of this moment. He expressed confidence that India will soon rank among the top three economies globally. He also underscored the government's commitment to eradicating corruption, casteism, and communalism from the national landscape.
Discussing international relations, PM Modi mentioned his recent message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that the era of war has passed. He stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy as the primary means of resolving conflicts in an era where the world faces numerous disputes and tensions. He reiterated India's dedication to supporting global peace efforts and emphasized the need for unity to address common challenges.
PM Modi also touched upon the issue of debt restructuring in the global South, expressing concern about the debt crisis, especially for developing nations. He underscored the importance of financial discipline and responsible policies at both the national and state levels. He highlighted the potential short-term gains of financially irresponsible policies and populism but cautioned against the long-term social and economic consequences.
Additionally, PM Modi emphasized India's strong commitment to Africa and proposed making the Africa Union a permanent member of the G-20. He noted India's deep-rooted cultural and economic ties with Africa and emphasized the growing strength of this relationship. Africa holds a prominent position on India's G20 agenda, reflecting the nation's genuine affinity and dedication to the continent.
Finally, PM Modi acknowledged the global challenge of inflation and mentioned that India's G20 Presidency is actively working toward finding solutions. He highlighted India's engagement with G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, particularly in the realm of international taxation, where India has contributed to significant progress on Pillar One, including the development of a text for a Multilateral Convention. This convention aims to facilitate major reforms in the international tax system, reflecting the confidence that partner countries have placed in India's G20 Presidency.
