"THIS G20 REFLECTS THE VOICE OF THE GLOBAL SOUTH"

THE NARENDRA MODI INTERVIEW

- RAHUL KANWAL, SOURAV MAJUMDAR AND SIDDHARTH ZARABI

India’s G20 presidency is a watershed moment, with the country helping shape a number of global issues. Among them are the reform of multilateral development banks, the inclusion of the African Union and the focus on climate action. As the central figure taking forward the G20 this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has successfully ensured that India plays a pivotal role in addressing the concerns of the Global South.

In an exclusive, over 40-minute-long interaction with Business Today at his sprawling, tastefully done up office in 7, Lok Kalyan Marg just days before the G20 Leaders’ Summit, Modi— dressed immaculately and looking very relaxed—speaks passionately about the opportunity India has to help address areas of global concern, how the country’s digital public infrastructure has become the toast of the world, India as a potential manufacturing hub, and much more.

Q: India’s presidency of the G20 comes at a time when international agencies are bullish about the growth potential of the Indian economy. In your view how will the G20 summit help bolster India’s image as an emerging economic power and as a credible voice at global economic platforms?

A: I don’t think the image of a country and its branding can be bolstered through a summit. The financial world works on hard facts. It works on performance and not perception.