The G20 Summit of 2023 marked the 18th gathering of the G20 Group, which concluded in India on September 10th, with India assuming the role of the host nation for this summit, as the President.
The G20, comprising of 19 sovereign nations, the European Union, and now the African Union, operates on a rotational basis for the presidency. India received the presidency on December 1st, 2022, and subsequently handed it over to Brazil. This raises the question of why such extensive funds were allocated for advertising and promotion, almost resembling an election campaign, when the presidency is based on rotation. Notably, promotional posters of Mr. Modi were prominently displayed, prompting concerns about the utilization of taxpayers' money for such purposes.
Moving on to the achievements of this Summit:
- Contrary to expectations, the summit yielded a joint statement signed by the heads of state. It outlined commitments to: A. Accelerate strong, sustainable, balanced, and inclusive growth. B. Expedite the full and effective implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. C. Enhance access to medical countermeasures and bolster supplies and production capacities in developing countries to better prepare for future health emergencies. D. Promote resilient growth by urgently addressing debt vulnerabilities in developing countries.
- The African Union joined the G20 organization.
- The leaders of India, the Middle East, Europe, and the USA proposed and approved the India-Middle East-Europe-USA Corridor.
- A Global Biofuel Alliance was established by member countries, focusing on maximizing the use of biofuels.
Now, for a critical examination:
This summit repositioned the development agenda for developing economies at the forefront.
Despite various countries, including India, grappling with inflationary problems and food grain shortages, due to the on going war, the declaration only briefly mentioned the war in Ukraine, with no reference to Russia's aggression. This resulted in Moscow viewing it as a diplomatic victory, while Ukraine and several European nations expressed disappointment.
However, given the prevailing circumstances, it reflects India's skill in navigating a delicate situation and achieving a declaration that satisfied all parties, likely with U.S. influence playing a role.
The consensus on the declaration may have been reached by recognizing that the G20 primarily serves as a forum for international economic cooperation, rather than a platform for addressing geopolitical and security concerns among its member nations. Consequently, the Russia-Ukraine conflict received limited attention.
The India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is a transnational rail and shipping route spread across two continents, which the US says is expected to stimulate economic development through improved connectivity and economic integration between Asia, Arabian Gulf and Europe. However, when and how it will be accomplished is yet to be finalised.
Notwithsatnding the above,few Historians claim that this is the Oldest trading route that carried fancy items including black pepper to Rome from India, it is older than the much Hyped and fancticised THE SILK ROUTE from China.
Africa, a continent comprising 55 countries, was notably underrepresented in the G20, with only South Africa included while the European Union was fully represented. Considering China's increasing presence in Africa, the inclusion of the African Union may support India's development agenda on the global stage and potentially provide a diplomatic ally during negotiations. While India maintains positive relations with African nations, economic interests now play a pivotal role, and competing with China's substantial investments in Africa presents a challenge.
Despite these considerations, Arvind Panagariya, former vice-chairman of NITI Aayog, appropriately characterized India's success at the G20 Summit as a "sense of arrival," signifying India's growing global influence.
Lastly, the exceptional enthusiasm and interest displayed by the host country, India, make it difficult for other nations to replicate the achievements of the G20 Summit.