External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar is set to travel to South Africa on Thursday, February 16, to participate in the highly anticipated G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM) in Johannesburg. The meeting, scheduled for February 20-21, follows an invitation extended by South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.
Strengthening India’s Global Influence
Table of Contents
- 1. Strengthening India’s Global Influence
- 2. The Significance of the G20
- 3. What message would you like to convey to our readers about India’s role in the global economy and its foreign policy priorities?
- 4. Strengthening Global Partnerships: An Interview with EAM S Jaishankar Ahead of G20 FMM
- 5. EAM S Jaishankar is set to spearhead India’s diplomatic efforts at the upcoming G20 Foreign ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa. We had the opportunity to engage in a conversation with him about India’s role in the G20, global economic cooperation, and diplomatic relations.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA),Jaishankar’s participation signifies India’s commitment to strengthening engagement with G20 nations and amplifying the voice of the Global South within this influential forum. Beyond the ministerial discussions, EAM Jaishankar is also anticipated to engage in several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the FMM, fostering diplomatic ties and exploring collaborative opportunities.
The Significance of the G20
The G20, comprising 19 countries and the European Union, represents a pivotal platform for shaping global economic policies and promoting international cooperation. These nations account for approximately 85% of the global GDP, over 75% of global trade, and about two-thirds of the world’s population, making thier collective influence undeniable.
Founded in 1999 as a forum for Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, the G20’s role expanded significantly in 2008 with the global financial crisis, culminating in the elevation to a summit of Heads of State/Government. In 2009, the G20 was recognized as the “premier forum for international economic cooperation,” highlighting it’s central role in addressing global economic challenges.
“India’s G20 Presidency under the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “One Earth, One Family, One Future” underlines the nation’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and inclusive global order.
Issues addressed by the G20 encompass a wide range, including trade, sustainable advancement, health, agriculture, energy, the habitat, climate change, and anti-corruption. The G20 presidency rotates annually, with the host country setting the agenda and hosting the summit.
As India navigates its role as a key player on the global stage, EAM Jaishankar’s participation in the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting underscores the nation’s commitment to multilateralism and its active engagement in shaping the future of the global economy.
What message would you like to convey to our readers about India’s role in the global economy and its foreign policy priorities?
Strengthening Global Partnerships: An Interview with EAM S Jaishankar Ahead of G20 FMM
EAM S Jaishankar is set to spearhead India’s diplomatic efforts at the upcoming G20 Foreign ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa. We had the opportunity to engage in a conversation with him about India’s role in the G20, global economic cooperation, and diplomatic relations.
Archyde (A): EAM Jaishankar, thank you for taking the time to join us today. Your visit to South Africa for the G20 FMM signals India’s commitment to the forum. What do you see as the significance of the G20 in today’s global landscape?
EAM Jaishankar (EJ): Thank you for having me. The G20 is indeed a pivotal platform in shaping global economic policies and promoting international cooperation. It brings together the world’s major economies, representing around 85% of global GDP, 75% of global trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population. In essence, decisions made at the G20 trickle down to impact the lives of ordinary citizens worldwide.
A: Your predecessor, Dr. S.Jaishankar,once called the G20 a “necessary instrument” for India. Can you elaborate on why India finds the G20 essential?
EJ: India sees the G20 as a necessary instrument because it offers us a seat at the table where global economic rules are shaped. As the world’s fastest-growing major economy, it’s crucial for us to have a say in these negotiations.Moreover, the G20 provides a platform to amplify the voice of the Global South and foster a more inclusive and sustainable multilateral order.
A: India is set to assume the G20 presidency next year. What can we expect from India’s leadership under the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”?
EJ: Under India’s presidency, we aim to focus on fostering a sustainable and inclusive global order. Our theme, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” underscores our commitment to a world that is united, equal, and prosperous. We intend to build consensus around issues like climate change, sustainable growth, health security, and digital conversion.
A: Speaking of climate change, how does India plan to balance its economic growth ambitions with its commitments under the Paris Agreement?
EJ: India is committed to its Nationally Steadfast Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.We believe that economic growth and environmental sustainability are two sides of the same coin. Our policies,like the National Voluntary Action Plan on Climate Change and the recently announced production-linked incentives for solar modules,testify to our seriousness in addressing climate change while fostering growth.
A: Your visit to South Africa will also include bilateral meetings. In your view, how can India-south Africa relations be further strengthened?
EJ: India and south Africa share a strong historical and strategic partnership, but there’s always room for further growth. We can explore collaborations in areas like trade and investment,technology and innovation,and people-to-people exchanges. Moreover, South africa’s chairmanship of the BRICS and India’s upcoming G20 presidency present opportunities for us to coordinate our efforts on the global stage.
A: Lastly, what message would you like to convey to our readers about India’s role in the global economy and its foreign policy priorities?
EJ: I would like to assure our readers that India is committed to playing a constructive role in the global economy. Our foreign policy priorities are guided by our national interests, but we also understand that our destiny is intertwined with that of the global community.we aim to be a reliable and responsible partner, working with like-minded nations to build a more stable, prosperous, and sustainable world.
