Modi calls for Global South unity at virtual summit

TDT | Agencies

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com   

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged the nations of the Global South to unite and support each other as a collective strength. In his opening address at the 3rd Voice of the Global South virtual summit yesterday, Modi expressed concern over the current global uncertainty and the challenges it presents.

He underscored that, while the world is still grappling with the aftermath of COVID-19, ongoing conflicts have further complicated the developmental progress of Global South nations.

Modi emphasized the pressing issues these countries face, including climate change, health security, food security, and energy security.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the persistent threats of terrorism, extremism, and separatism, alongside the emerging economic and social challenges posed by the technology divide.

He reassured that India is committed to sharing its experiences and capabilities with all Global South countries, focusing on promoting trade, inclusive development, progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and women-led development. Modi pointed out the recent advancements in Global South cooperation, particularly in infrastructure, digital, and energy connectivity.

Under Mission LiFE, New Delhi is prioritizing rooftop solar and renewable power generation, both within India and in partner countries. He also mentioned India’s efforts to connect various Global South nations through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). Significant progress has been made in education, capacity building, and skill development in partnership with Global South nations, Modi noted.

He introduced the Global South Young Diplomat Forum and the South Excellence Centre, which focuses on capacity building, skilling, and knowledge sharing. Praising the role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in fostering inclusive growth, the Prime Minister highlighted the establishment of the Global DPI Depository during India’s G20 Presidency as the first multilateral consensus on DPI.

India has also set up a Social Impact Fund to accelerate DPI progress in the Global South, with an initial contribution of 25 million dollars.

For health security, Modi reiterated India’s commitment to the mission of "One World-One Health" and the vision of “Arogya Maitri.” He noted that New Delhi has upheld this partnership by collaborating on healthcare projects in Africa and Pacific Island countries.

In times of humanitarian crises, India has acted as a first responder, providing assistance to friendly nations, Modi said. Concluding the summit, he expressed confidence that the discussions will advance the goals set by Global South nations and proposed a comprehensive Global Development Compact, drawing on India’s own development journey and experiences.

To further strengthen trade promotion activities, Modi announced that India will provide a 2.5 million dollar fund and contribute 1 million dollars for capacity building in trade policy and negotiations.