Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing the pressing issues faced by Global South countries, addressed the G7 Outreach event on Friday. He highlighted that these nations are disproportionately affected by global uncertainties and tensions. Modi affirmed India’s commitment to bringing the priorities and concerns of the Global South to the global stage, especially under India’s G20 presidency, which recently included the African Union as a permanent member.
On the second day of the summit, Modi arrived in Italy to attend the outreach session, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean. He held bilateral discussions with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, French President Emmanuel Macron, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Modi also underscored the significance of India’s recent electoral process, describing it as the “biggest festival of democracy in the world.”
The first day of the G7 summit, held at Borgo Egnazia in Italy, saw leaders from Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the UK, the US, and the EU convene. A key highlight was the agreement to provide $50 billion in loans to Ukraine, funded by interest from Russian sovereign assets frozen following the 2022 invasion. Modi’s remarks on technology emphasized its role in making elections fair and transparent, and he called for technology to be used to eliminate social inequalities and expand human capabilities.
Modi’s trip also included a meeting with Pope Francis, where he extended an invitation to visit India. Modi promoted India’s Mission LiFE initiative, encouraging tree plantation as a mass movement with a personal touch and global responsibility. He thanked Italy for its hospitality and reflected on the productive discussions aimed at creating solutions for the global community.
Modi’s interactions at the summit included a notable selfie video with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, which went viral on social media. The camaraderie between the two leaders highlighted the positive bilateral relations.
Modi also met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, discussing the importance of strong India-Japan ties for a peaceful Indo-Pacific. The leaders agreed to advance cooperation in various sectors, including defense, technology, clean energy, and digital technology. Modi reiterated the commitment to the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, which is in its 10th year.
In a final meeting with Meloni, Modi reviewed the progress of the India-Italy strategic partnership, agreeing to strengthen cooperation in global forums and multilateral initiatives, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The leaders committed to their shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
