G20 is a huge opportunity to promote India as key driver of Global South: Amitabh Kant

G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant says the voice of the Global South has been at the forefront throughout India's presidency

- MEGHA SHARMA

G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, in a conversation with NewsX, spoke about how India is utilising the G20 multilateral forum to find a way out of obstructions put up by China—be it Misson LiFE, women-led development, MSMEs or India’s slogan for G20 presidency, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”. Excerpts:

Q: It’s been a marathon yearlong exercise culminating in a huge way. What has been PM Narendra Modi’s vision for India G20 Summit?

A: PM Narendra Modi’s vision was that we should do G20 very differently from how other countries do it. Normally, they do in one city or two cities. He wanted it to be done in all states of India. He wanted it to be done in all Union Territories of India. We have covered every state, every Union Territory, we have had a huge participation. We have had meetings in 60 cities of India. The citizens of India have participated in them. It’s been a people’s presidency. We have involved all universities, colleges, students, everyone in this process. 

Q: What resources have gone into making the India G20 Summit a grand affair? 

A: Our objective has been that everybody works in partnership. Whether it was all the departments working under the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, all the central government departments, everyone has worked together so that we are able to green up Delhi, to put more flowers, put more lights and artefacts to give a unique experience of Delhi. Let me assure you that not much has been spent. The resources have been spent for greening Delhi. It’s something all citizens need to feel proud of. Citizens need to maintain it through the year.

Q: Is the Prime Minister’s vision of India becoming the Vishwamitra ( friend of the world) resonating with the international community?