Commitment to the Global South
- Holistic Development Advocacy:
- India actively champions human-centric development for the Global South in international forums.
- Focus on fostering self-reliance through:
- Infrastructure projects to enhance connectivity.
- Financial, budgetary, and humanitarian assistance.
- Capacity building via scholarships and training programs for students and professionals.
- Voice of Global South Summit (VOGSS):
- Hosted three editions in January 2023, November 2023, and August 2024.
- Participation from over 100 countries at various levels (Heads of State, Ministers, Officials).
- Aimed at sharing development priorities, concerns, and advocating reforms in multilateral institutions.
- G20 Presidency Achievements:
- African Union’s inclusion in G20 as a permanent member during the New Delhi G20 Summit (September 2023).
- Adoption of the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration, highlighting issues pertinent to the Global South.
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)
- Vision and Structure:
- Aimed at transformative integration of Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
- Comprises two corridors:
- Eastern Corridor: India to Gulf.
- Northern Corridor: Gulf to Europe.
- Features digital, energy, and railway connectivity, undersea cables, and energy grids.
- Goals and Benefits:
- Facilitate clean energy development and digital connectivity.
- Enhance trade efficiency, secure supply chains, reduce costs, and generate jobs.
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions and foster economic unity.
- Key Agreements:
- Intergovernmental Framework Agreement (India-UAE) signed on February 13, 2024.
- Focus on developing logistics platforms and digital ecosystems.
- Status and Challenges:
- IMEC is in its nascent stage, requiring multi-stakeholder involvement.
- Infrastructure gaps in the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) are being addressed.
Peace Advocacy and Conflict Resolution
- Humanitarian Concerns:
- Advocates cessation of violence and humanitarian aid in global conflicts.
- Emphasizes peaceful resolution through diplomacy and dialogue.
- Global Engagement:
- Maintains communication with all conflict parties.
- Reinforces adherence to international law, UN Charter, and sovereignty of states.
Promotion of Indian Culture Abroad
- Cultural Outreach Programs:
- Conducted by Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) through its global centers.
- Activities include:
- Yoga, dance, music, Sanskrit, and Hindi teaching.
- Organizing cultural events, conferences, and seminars.
- Promoting Indian films and festivals.
- Conservation of Cultural Heritage:
- Dedicated MEA Division (DPA-IV) oversees projects in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India and Ministry of Culture.
- Current conservation projects:
- Ta Prohm Temple (Cambodia).
- Preah Vihear Temple (Cambodia).
- Vat Phou Temple (Laos).
- My Son Temples (Vietnam).
India’s comprehensive approach reflects its commitment to sustainable development, cultural diplomacy, and global collaboration, particularly emphasizing the priorities of the Global South and fostering interconnected economic and cultural ties.
