The G20 Leaders’ Summit, scheduled for September 9-10, 2023, in New Delhi, promises to be a pivotal event on the global stage. With over 30 heads of state, top officials from the European Union, invited guest countries, and 14 heads of international organizations expected to attend, the world’s attention is firmly fixed on the Indian capital.

Strict Traffic Curbs and Preparations

In anticipation of the summit, the local authorities have implemented stringent traffic curbs in the area encompassing the G20 summit venue and the hotels designated for the attending delegates. These measures are essential to ensure the smooth flow of the event and the security of the dignitaries.

Diverse Attendees and Key Highlights

The G20 Summit is an international platform where leaders converge to discuss pressing global issues. This year’s event is no exception. Here are some notable highlights:

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Arrival

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Delhi for the G20 Summit, setting the stage for significant discussions and collaborations.

PM Modi Welcomes EU Commission Head Ursula von der Leyen

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended a warm welcome to Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the European Commission. Their discussions will likely touch on crucial matters of mutual interest.

India’s Space Achievements

Jitendra Singh, India’s Union Minister, emphasized the remarkable synchronicity between India’s G20 Presidency and its outstanding achievements in space exploration. This includes India’s successful moon mission and pioneering contributions to Covid vaccine research.

Vibrant Decorations and Theme

The host city, New Delhi, has been adorned with vibrant decorations, including flowers arranged to resemble the national flag and bright umbrellas, in anticipation of the Summit. The chosen theme for this year’s event, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (One Earth, One Family, One Future), underscores the global solidarity required to tackle today’s challenges.

Bharat Mandapam and PM Modi’s Cover Image

The G20 Summit will take place at the Bharat Mandapam, a cutting-edge venue that recently witnessed Prime Minister Modi changing his social media cover image to feature the Nataraja statue located at the Summit venue. This symbolizes the cultural significance of the event.

Showcasing Digital India

The Digital India Experience Zone, set up at Bharat Mandapam, highlights India’s significant strides in digital transformation. Key projects like Aadhaar, e-Sanjeevani, and the AI-based language platform Bhashini are showcased, demonstrating India’s commitment to digital innovation.

Transportation Measures

In line with the preparations, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has issued advisories, urging commuters to use the Magenta Line for reaching Terminal 1 of Indira Gandhi International Airport during the Summit. Feeder buses between Delhi Aerocity Station and Terminal 1 will be temporarily unavailable.

Security and Precautions

Ensuring the safety of all attendees is a top priority. Delhi Police and BSF personnel have been conducting patrols along the Yamuna River, and comprehensive security checks are being carried out across the city. The presence of bomb disposal units and specially trained dog squads further reinforces security measures.

International Leaders Arriving

Several prominent world leaders have arrived in Delhi for the G20 Summit, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Argentine President Alberto Fernández, and IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva. Their participation underscores the global significance of this gathering.

High Expectations and Diplomatic Efforts

The United States, represented by Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen, is keen on advancing its relationship with India and supporting global agricultural and food security initiatives. The G20 Summit presents an opportunity for diplomatic dialogue and collaboration.

Keynote Statements and India’s Leadership

While the absence of some world leaders like Putin and Xi has sparked discussion, German Ambassador Philip Achermann noted that the G20 Summit remains an important forum for global dialogue. India’s leadership in inviting the African Union for permanent membership in the G20 has garnered support from other nations.

G20 vs. UN

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah highlighted the unique value of the G20 forum, emphasizing that it provides a platform for 20 countries to discuss and seek solutions to their issues, making it an effective alternative to the United Nations.

Hopes for a Successful Summit

Former G20 Sherpa Montek Singh Ahluwalia expressed optimism about the upcoming G20 Summit, acknowledging the challenges but emphasizing the forum’s role in creating consensus and fostering negotiations.

UN Secretary-General’s Confidence

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed confidence in India’s ability to bridge geopolitical divides and achieve meaningful results at the Summit. His presence at the event underscores the global significance of the gathering.

Oman Sherpa’s Praise for India

Pankaj Khimji, G20 Sherpa to Oman, praised India’s leadership in digital transformation and its balanced approach to climate and energy transition, affirming India’s vital role on the global stage.

Varied Bilateral Meetings

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold over 15 bilateral meetings with world leaders, including those from Mauritius, Bangladesh, the USA, UK, Japan, Germany, Italy, France, Canada, Comoros, Türkiye, UAE, South Korea, EU/EC, Brazil, and Nigeria. These meetings will undoubtedly shape the future of international relations.

Verification of Business Leader Invitations

The government has clarified that no business leaders have been invited to the G20 ‘Special Dinner,’ dispelling earlier media reports that suggested otherwise.

White House’s Efforts for a Joint Declaration

The United States is actively working toward a joint declaration at the end of the G20 Summit, aiming to find common ground on contentious issues through a spirit of compromise.

In conclusion, the G20 Summit in Delhi promises to be a platform for significant diplomatic efforts, discussions, and collaborations on global issues. With a diverse range of leaders in attendance, the event holds the potential to shape the course of international relations and address pressing challenges. As the Summit unfolds, the world awaits the outcomes and agreements that will emerge from this high-stakes gathering.