Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked his first overseas trip in his third term by attending the G7 Summit held in Apulia, Italy. During this significant international engagement, Modi addressed key issues such as artificial intelligence, sustainable energy solutions, and regional stability in Africa and the Mediterranean.
The summit also provided an opportunity for bilateral discussions with various world leaders, aiming to strengthen India's global diplomatic and economic ties. This comprehensive summary delves into the detailed interactions, strategic dialogues, and the potential implications of these high-level meetings.
Key Highlights and Strategic Discussions at the G7 Summit
Outreach Session on Key Global Issues
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the outreach session, emphasizing the importance of artificial intelligence, sustainable energy solutions, and regional stability in Africa and the Mediterranean.
His speech highlighted India's commitment to leveraging technology and energy resources to drive global development and foster regional stability.
Bilateral Meetings and Strategic Dialogues
United States: Reinforcing Strategic Ties
Modi’s meeting with US President Joe Biden focused on enhancing India-US strategic relations, particularly in defense and cutting-edge technologies. The leaders reiterated their shared vision of promoting global good through collaboration.
This interaction was significant as it came nearly seven months after allegations of an Indian link to a foiled plot to murder Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York. India has responded by appointing a high-level probe team to investigate these allegations.
France: Horizon 2047 Initiative
In a bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Modi reviewed the comprehensive India-France relations under the ‘Horizon 2047’ initiative.
The discussions covered cooperation in defense, nuclear energy, space, education, climate action, digital infrastructure, connectivity, and cultural initiatives.
Both leaders agreed to enhance strategic defense cooperation with a focus on ‘Make in India’, and expand collaboration in AI, critical and emerging technologies, energy, and sports.
United Kingdom: Expediting FTA Negotiations
Prime Minister Modi’s discussion with British PM Rishi Sunak revolved around bilateral relations and the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.
Both leaders expressed the need to expedite FTA talks to significantly enhance bilateral trade, currently valued at approximately 38.1 billion pounds annually. The negotiations, which began in January 2022, are expected to resume after the new UK government is elected on July 4.
Italy: Strengthening Strategic Partnership
Modi’s meeting with Italy’s PM Giorgia Meloni focused on reviewing the progress of the India-Italy strategic partnership.
They emphasized the need to expand commercial ties in clean energy, manufacturing, space, telecom, AI, and critical minerals. The recent signing of a MoU on Industrial Property Rights was welcomed, highlighting cooperation on patents, designs, and trademarks.
They also discussed enhancing bilateral defense and security cooperation, and the upcoming visit of the Italian aircraft carrier ITS Cavour and training ship ITS Vespucci to India later this year.
Japan: Defense and Technology Collaboration
Prime Minister Modi met with Japan’s PM Fumio Kishida, discussing collaboration in defense, technology, semiconductors, clean energy, and digital technology. Both nations aim to strengthen ties in infrastructure and cultural linkages, emphasizing a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
Japan has targeted 5 trillion yen in investment in India from 2022 to 2027, enhancing manufacturing cooperation through the India-Japan Industrial Competitiveness Partnership.
Canada: Addressing Strained Relations
Relations between India and Canada remained strained following allegations by Canadian PM Justin Trudeau regarding Indian agents’ involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Modi’s interaction with Trudeau focused on addressing these allegations and finding ways to improve bilateral ties. India dismissed Trudeau's charges as "motivated" and “absurd”.
Ukraine: Promoting Dialogue and Diplomacy
Modi met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reiterating India’s support for a peaceful solution to the Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.
The upcoming Swiss peace conference for Ukraine was also discussed, with Modi emphasizing India’s commitment to humanitarian aid and peaceful conflict resolution. Zelenskyy thanked Modi for sending a high-level delegation to the conclave in Switzerland.
Germany: Enhancing Strategic Partnership
Modi’s interaction with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. They discussed cooperation in sustainable development and global growth, focusing on inclusive economic strategies.
Modi stated that the interaction with Chancellor Scholzvon was very productive, emphasizing the potential of the partnership to further global growth.
UN Secretary General: Global Growth and Sustainability
Prime Minister Modi met with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, discussing India’s role in promoting global growth and sustainable development. Modi emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges.
Guterres appreciated India’s efforts and reiterated the UN’s support for India’s initiatives.
Pope Francis: Invitation to Visit India
PM Modi met Pope Francis and invited him to visit India. Modi expressed admiration for Pope Francis’s commitment to serving people and making the planet better.
The meeting underscored India’s commitment to fostering global peace and humanitarian efforts.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation in the G7 Summit marked a significant step in India’s foreign policy under Modi 3.0. The discussions with world leaders emphasized strategic collaborations in defense, technology, energy, and trade.
India’s foreign policy aims to navigate the complex global landscape, leveraging opportunities for growth and addressing challenges through strategic partnerships and multilateral cooperation.
As India continues to engage with global powers, the focus remains on fostering sustainable development, enhancing defense capabilities, and promoting global peace and stability.
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