India’s message clear, trade should be trusted: PM at G20

Marred by the US boycott, the Summit saw leaders focusing on tech, rare-earth minerals shortage and climate change. Archis Mohan writes

- Archis Mohan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday stressed the need to promote technology applications that were “human-centric” rather than “finance-centric”, that are “global” rather than merely “national”, and that follow “open-source” models rather than “exclusive” ones.

“India’s message is clear, Development must be sustainable. Trade should be trusted. Finance must be fair. And progress must ensure all-inclusive prosperity,” he said.

Addressing the concluding session of the G20 summit in Johannesburg, marred by the boycott of the United States (US), Modi urged member countries of the Group of 20, or G20, to develop a global framework for talent mobility, and proposed a worldwide compact on artificial intelligence (AI). He said the AI compact must provide for an effective human oversight and a strict ban on the use of AI for deepfakes, crime, and terrorism. “AI systems that impact human life, security, or public trust must be responsible and auditable,” he added.

Technological advancement was leading to opportunities and resources becoming increasingly concentrated in a few hands, he said, and this was an obstacle to innovation. He flagged that competition over critical technologies was intensifying around the world.

Over two days of speeches and interactions with leaders, Modi spoke of the need for an inclusive world order in sharing technological advancement and supplying critical minerals. On Saturday, Modi proposed setting up a “G20 critical minerals circularity initiative”, which could drive innovation such as recycling, urban mining, and second-life batteries. His suggestion has come in the context of India facing a shortage of supply in critical minerals from China.

G20 declaration