RIO DE JANEIRO: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence at the G20 Summit in Brazil was marked by a series of high-level discussions aimed at reinforcing India’s strategic global position and advancing ties with key international partners. In a flurry of meetings, PM Modi engaged with leaders from Italy, Indonesia, Portugal, Norway, and South Korea, further solidifying India’s diplomatic footprint on the world stage. The summit, hosted by Brazil, provided a significant platform to address pressing global issues such as the digital economy, climate change, and the ongoing geopolitical crisis, including tensions arising from the Israel-Hamas conflict and the ongoing U.S.-China rivalry.

In his meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the focus was on bolstering defense and security cooperation, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of technology and trade in strengthening the bilateral relationship. Modi expressed optimism about the 2025-2029 India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan, which is expected to lay the groundwork for an enhanced partnership across multiple sectors. In his statement, Modi remarked, *”India-Italy friendship can greatly contribute to a better planet.”* The two leaders also discussed fostering deeper cultural and educational ties.

Similarly, PM Modi’s interaction with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto celebrated the 75th anniversary of India-Indonesia diplomatic relations. The discussions spanned various domains, including healthcare, security, and commerce, aimed at further expanding the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. Modi expressed his commitment to India’s full support for Indonesia’s development, with an eye on reinforcing their cooperation in emerging sectors like pharmaceuticals.

The conversation with Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro centered around enhancing economic collaboration, with a focus on renewable energy and green hydrogen. Both leaders acknowledged the vast potential for joint initiatives in these sectors, which align with global sustainability goals. Modi also highlighted the long-standing ties between India and Portugal, which he described as an important aspect of both nations’ diplomatic and economic strategies.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Modi’s discussions revolved around the Arctic region and renewable energy, particularly green hydrogen, alongside trade opportunities following the new India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA). The leaders noted the promising prospects of this agreement in creating new avenues for investment and job creation in both countries.

Beyond bilateral dialogues, PM Modi’s meetings with key international figures like IMF Deputy Managing Director Gita Gopinath and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reinforced India’s commitment to global cooperation. Gopinath, praising India’s successes in poverty reduction and food security, noted that India’s initiatives are exemplary models for global development. Modi, in return, reiterated India’s resolve to tackle food security and poverty, underscoring India’s pivotal role in global solutions.

The G20 Summit, a critical global event, saw discussions on climate action, trade relations, and conflict resolution. PM Modi’s leadership during this summit highlighted India’s growing influence in shaping the global agenda, with a clear focus on multilateral engagement to address the pressing challenges of the modern world.

Web Team, C6N