'India's time to shine': How G20 summit can be a pivotal moment for India's global aspirations
India prepares to host the prestigious gathering of world leaders this weekend for the G20 summit, showcasing India's aspirations to establish itself as a prominent global player. As per a TOI analysis, the event carries immense significance for India, particularly for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as it will define the nation's role as a champion of the Global South and the voice of numerous developing countries.
This summit represents a diplomatic milestone for New Delhi as it endeavors to bring together a fractured world amidst the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Experts believe that this summit will serve as India's moment to shine, marking its emergence as an independent and influential voice on the global stage.
Months prior to the G20 summit, Prime Minister Modi extended invitations to 125 predominantly developing nations for a virtual meeting in January, signaling India's intention to advocate for them globally. This initiative highlights India's goal not only to bridge the gap between the developed and developing world but also to act as a mediator between the West and Russia.
PM Modi succinctly outlined India's role in an interview with French media in July: «I see India being that strong shoulder that if Global South has to make that high jump, India can be that shoulder to propel it ahead.
For the Global South, India can also build its linkages with Global North. So, in that sense, this shoulder can become this bridge of sorts.»
Despite the Ukraine conflict taking center stage at most global forums, India has focused on addressing issues that directly affect developing countries, including food and fuel insecurity, rising inflation, debt concerns, and reforms within multilateral development
