The G20 Summit in New Delhi served as a platform for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to engage in a series of bilateral meetings with world leaders, reinforcing diplomatic ties and discussing key areas of cooperation. These meetings showcased India’s commitment to building strong global partnerships across various sectors, from trade and technology to clean energy and culture.
Fostering Cooperation with the African Union
Comoros President Azali Assouman acclaimed India as a superpower, stating that it is “ahead of China now”. He also underlined the strong relationship between India and Comoros and expressed positivity for future ties. This comes after the African Union became a permanent member of the G20 during the summit of world leaders. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had advocated for the African Union’s full membership in the G20, a proposal that received support from key players globally.
PM Modi also met Assoumani to discuss about escalating India-Comoros ties in sectors like trade, investments and maritime cooperation.
Advancing India-France Relations
Prime Minister Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron reviewed the progress in bilateral relations since their last meeting in July this year in Paris. They also exchanged views on important international and regional developments. According to the joint statement, both India and France decided to carry forward their discussions on mutual partnership in the Indo-Pacific region and Africa, including in infrastructure, connectivity, energy, biodiversity, sustainability, and industrial projects. In a social media post, Modi said, both the countries discussed a number of topics and look forward to ensure India-France relations scale new heights.
Speaking to the media at the International Media Centre in the national capital, French President Macron said, “the G20 Summit has sent across the message of unity. He added that India and France will further deepen defence cooperation. He added that both India and France support deep reforms of international institutions to reflect the current reality of the world.”
India-US Ties
During their second bilateral meeting in less than six months, PM Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the partnership between their nations. They convened in Delhi on the eve of the Group of 20 (G20) leaders’ summit, highlighting the evolving global alliances. Their 29-point statement underscored the comprehensive nature of their relationship, encompassing strategic technology value chains, defense industrial cooperation, renewable and nuclear energy collaboration, climate financing, and cancer research. This meeting, part of a series of bilateral discussions, exemplified India’s strategic aspirations as a vital global bridge between the developed world and the Global South, occurring amidst the backdrop of the G20 gathering in Delhi.
India-UK on Roadmap 30 and FTA
PM Modi met UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Saturday. As per the Ministry of External Affairs, the two leaders noted with satisfaction the progress in diverse areas of bilateral cooperation as per the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as well as the Roadmap 2030, particularly in economy, defence and security, technology, green technology and climate change, health and mobility sectors. Both leaders also exchanged views on international and regional issues of importance and mutual interest.
The PMs also reviewed the progress of Free Trade Agreement negotiations and expressed hope that the remaining issues could be addressed at the earliest so that a balanced, mutually beneficial and forward looking Free Trade Agreement is concluded soon.
Deepening India-Japan Ties
PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with H.E Mr. Fumio Kishida, Prime Minister of Japan, on 9 September 2023 on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in New Delhi. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
Fortifying Trade Relations with Brazil
Bilateral talks between PM Modi and Brazilian President Lula da Silva reaffirmed the robust ties between India and Brazil. The leaders explored avenues for boosting trade and cooperation in agriculture, technology, and other sectors. Prime Minister Modi also extended his best wishes for Brazil’s upcoming G20 Presidency, highlighting the spirit of international collaboration.
Bracing Ties with Turkey
PM Modi also held a meeting with Turkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Later, talking to the media, the Turkiye President said, India conducted the G20 successfully on the theme of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future. On the expansion of United Nation Security Council (UNSC). Mr. Erdogan said, the rotational system should be adopted to give chance to every member country. He supported India’s candidacy as a permanent member in UNSC.
Strengthening India-EU Relations
Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with European Union officials, Ursula von der Leyen and Charles Michel, centered on improved connectivity, trade, and technology. The focus on futuristic sectors, such as green hydrogen, reflects India’s commitment to sustainable development and global cooperation.
India-Bangladesh on Bilateral Cooperation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina at the outset of the G20 Summit. The leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries. India and Bangladesh’s partnership has strengthened, matured, and evolved as a model for bilateral relations for the entire region and beyond.
Boosting India-Canada Relations
The Indian PM met with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to discuss the full spectrum of India-Canada relations. The discussions encompassed various sectors, reflecting the depth and breadth of cooperation between the two nations. Trudeau’s acknowledgment of discussions on issues like Khalistan extremism and foreign interference underscores the candid nature of diplomatic conversations.
Strengthening Business with the Netherlands
PM Modi’s meeting with Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte highlighted the potential for enhanced cooperation between India and the Netherlands. Discussions centered on expanding business ties and fostering collaboration in clean energy, semiconductors, and digital technology. This meeting underlined the importance of economic and technological alliances in the contemporary global landscape.
Building Bridges with Nigeria
In a fruitful meeting with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of trade and cultural exchanges between India and Nigeria. These discussions not only promote economic growth but also foster cultural understanding, reinforcing the foundation of a strong bilateral relationship.
Elevating Commercial and Cultural Relations with South Korea
Extensive deliberations between PM Modi and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol aimed to boost commercial and cultural ties. This meeting highlights the importance of diverse relationships in promoting economic growth and cultural exchange.
Collaborating with Germany in Clean Energy and Innovation
PM Modi met with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, expressing gratitude for Scholz’s enriching contributions to the G20 Summit. Discussions revolved around the potential for India and Germany to work together in clean energy, innovation, and environmental conservation.
India-Italy on Defence and Technology
PM Modi also met Italy Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the summit and discussed progress in diverse areas of the India-Italy Strategic Partnership. Both leaders agreed to bolster cooperation in areas such as defence and new and emerging technologies.
The G20 Summit in New Delhi provided Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a unique opportunity to engage with world leaders and strengthen India’s global partnerships. These bilateral meetings showcased India’s commitment to fostering cooperation in various sectors, from trade and technology to clean energy and culture. As India continues to play a pivotal role in the international arena, these diplomatic endeavours underscore its dedication to building a more interconnected and prosperous world.