New Delhi: In the concluding session of the 2nd Voice of the Global South Summit held on October 23, 2023, Prime Minister’s opening statement reflected a shared commitment to the development and aspirations of nations spanning Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and Pacific Islands.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his satisfaction with the participation of nearly 130 countries from Latin America and the Caribbean to Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands in the summit, underscoring the significance of Global South’s autonomous voice in global governance.
The Prime Minister recounted the progress made within the Global South in the past year, emphasizing the collective desire for autonomy, governance participation, and a heightened sense of responsibility in global affairs.
During the summit, discussions delved into common expectations and aspirations. India, proud to champion the Global South’s voice in crucial forums like the G20, shared its agenda to keep the Global South’s concerns at the forefront.
Acknowledging the robust support and firm belief of participating nations, Prime Minister Modi expressed heartfelt gratitude. He expressed confidence that the resonating voice of the Global South at the G20 Summit would continue to echo on other global platforms in the future.
The summit witnessed a renewed commitment to shared expectations and aspirations. Notable progress was reported on commitments made during the first Voice of the Global South Summit.
The launch of the Global South Centre of Excellence, focusing on research related to developmental issues in developing countries, was announced. This initiative aims to find practical solutions to challenges faced by the Global South.
Under the Aarogya Maitri initiative, India continues its commitment to providing essential medicines and supplies for humanitarian aid. Recent support extended to Palestine and Nepal following the earthquake exemplifies India’s dedication to global health assistance.
India is eager to share its digital health service delivery capabilities with the Global South. Through the Global-South Science & Technology initiative, India is poised to assist partners in capacity building and research.
The “G20 Satellite Mission for Environment and Climate Observation” will facilitate the sharing of climate and weather data, especially benefiting countries in the Global South.
The initiation of the Global South Scholarships program will provide more opportunities for students from Global South countries to pursue higher education in India.
India’s first Indian Institute of Technology campus in Tanzania, opened this year, marks a significant step in capacity building in the Global South.
For young diplomats, the proposed Global-South Young Diplomats Forum is set to be organized soon, providing a platform for youth from participating countries to engage in diplomatic discourse.
Looking ahead, India proposes to start an Annual International Conference centered on the developmental priorities of the Global South. The conference, organized by the “Dakshin” Center, will collaborate with global South partner research centers and think tanks to identify practical solutions for development-related challenges.
In the face of serious situations in West Asia, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the shared interest in global peace and stability. The impact of these crises is also felt in the Global South, necessitating united efforts to find solutions.
Prime Minister Modi concluded by extending full support to the next chair of the G20, His Excellency the President of Brazil, expressing confidence in Brazil’s leadership strengthening the Global South’s priorities and interests.
As a member of the troika, India assures complete support to Brazil. The Prime Minister invited President Lula to share his thoughts, looking forward to hearing from all present.