New Delhi: G20 leaders, including India, have refrained from explicitly naming Russia in the 2023 New Delhi Declaration concerning the Ukraine crisis.
This marks a notable shift from the declaration adopted at last year's summit in Indonesia, where Russia was explicitly mentioned in connection with its aggression against Ukraine.
The New Delhi Declaration calls upon all states to "refrain from the threat, or use, of force to seek territorial acquisition" and deems the threat of using nuclear weapons "inadmissible." Although it does not specifically name Russia in relation to the Ukraine war, it underscores the importance of upholding international law principles, including territorial integrity and sovereignty.
The document further emphasises the need for a "comprehensive, just and durable peace in Ukraine."
Notably, the previous G20 declaration in Indonesia had condemned Russian aggression against Ukraine in the "strongest terms" and cited a United Nations resolution.
The New Delhi Declaration's stance on Russia and the Ukraine crisis represents a significant departure from Western nations' insistence on strong language concerning Russia's actions. Disagreements over the wording of paragraphs related to geopolitical situations had previously hindered consensus-building efforts within the G20.
India, as the host of the 2023 summit, sought to accommodate the views of Russia and China while emphasising the G20's primary role as a forum for economic cooperation rather than for addressing geopolitical and security issues.
India's position on this matter reflects the complex diplomatic balancing act it has had to perform, given its close defence partnership with Russia, friendly relations with Ukraine, membership in the Quad (which includes the United States, Australia, and Japan), and its role as the G20's President for 2023.
The unanimous passing of the New Delhi Declaration underscores India's commitment to maintaining the tradition of the G20 issuing a joint communique after each summit, even when addressing sensitive geopolitical issues.