Prime Minister Modi at G7: Strengthening Ties and Highlighting India’s Growing Influence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the G7 Summit in southern Italy’s Apulia, engaging in a series of high level one on one meetings with the world leaders, which includes UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, French President Emmanuel Macron, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Italian Prime Minister and the host Giorgia Meloni. His interactions extended to a significant meeting with Pope Francis, underscoring India’s strategic importance on the global platform.

Key Meetings and Agendas

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

Modi and Sunak asserted their promise to strengthen the India Uk Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This friendship aims to enhance economic ties and address global challenges, including climate change and digital transformation.

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni

Emphasizing the momentum both the leaders brought to the India- Italy strategic partnership, PM Modi highlighted Meloni’s visit to India in 2023. Their discussions focused on cooperation in the Indo Pacific and Mediterranean regions, aiming to bolster regional stability and economic growth.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky

Modi and Zelensky discussed the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and explored bilateral cooperation. They also considered the potential for sharing technology in agriculture, reflecting India’s expertise in this sector and its readiness to support global food security.

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French President Emmanuel Macron:

Modi and Macron focused on intensifying strategic defense cooperation, especially under India’s “Make in India” initiative. Their discussions highlighted the importance of a strong partnership in maintaining a stable global order.

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Pope Francis

Modi’s meeting with Pope Francis was marked by a warm exchange with Modi expressing admiration for the Pope’s commitment to global welfare. This meeting underscored India’s commitment to nurture global peace and harmony.

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India’s Strategic Position at the G7

Despite not being a G7 member, India’s presence at the summit highlights its growing influence and strategic importance.

Economic Cooperation: The G7 countries are some of India’s major trading partners. deepening these ties could expand markets for Indian goods and foster economic growth. The G7’s $600 billion partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGll) offers significant opportunities for India.

Technological Advancement: Collaborating with G7 nations can help India leverage advancement in renewable energy, artificial intelligence and digital technology, driving its technological progress.

Strategic Partnership: India’s strategic alliances with G7 members, including the US, UK, France, Germany and Japan are important for addressing global challenges, particularly in the Indo Pacific region, where countering China’s influence is a key concern.

Global Governance and Democracy: India’s participation in the G7 reflects its commitment to democratic values and human rights, aligning with the G7’s principles and contributing to global Governance.

Environmental Concerns: Collaboration with the G7 on climate change initiatives and sustainable development aligns with India’s environmental goals. India’s LIFE (Lifestyle for Environment) campaign, promoted at previous G7 summits, exemplifies this cooperation.

Peace and Security: The G7’s commitment to international peace and security compels India’s foreign policy, allowing for joint efforts in conflict prevention and resolution.

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India’s Economic and Strategic Significance

India’s role in global forums like the G7 is increasingly significant due to its economic rise and strategic importance in the Indo- Pacific region.

Economic Growth: India is now the world’s 5th largest economy, with the IMF projecting it to be one of the fastest growing economies globally. This economic strength makes India an important player in global economic dynamics.

Indo- Pacific Strategy: As global focus shifts to the Indo- Pacific, India’s strategic location and alliances are crucial for western countries in countering China’s influence and accessing regional economic opportunities.

Global Influence: India’s involvement in groups like SAARC, SCO, BRICS and its engagement with the Global South underscores its vital role in shaping global policies and economic trends.

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PM Modi’s active participation in the G7 Summit and his meetings with the global leaders highlight India’s growing influence and strategic importance on the global stage. These interactions showcase India’s commitment to nurturing economic growth, global cooperation and stability.