On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on the nations of the Global South to unite in addressing critical issues such as food and energy security, terrorism, and other global challenges.
Speaking at the third edition of the Voice of Global South Summit, which was hosted virtually by India, Modi highlighted the growing "uncertainties" around the world and stressed the need for collective action.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister announced that India would contribute an initial sum of USD 25 million to a 'Social Impact Fund,' which aims to develop Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in the Global South. He reaffirmed India's commitment to sharing its technological capabilities with developing countries to promote mutual trade, inclusive development, and the achievement of sustainable development goals.
Modi noted that the world is still grappling with the aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic and that new challenges, such as ongoing wars, have further complicated the path to development. He also emphasized the pressing issues of climate change, health security, food security, and energy security.
"We are already facing the challenges of climate change, and now there are also concerns about health security, food security, and energy security," Modi said. He further warned of the dangers posed by terrorism, extremism, and separatism, which he described as "serious threats to our societies." He also pointed to the emerging economic and social challenges related to technology.
Modi criticized global governance and financial institutions established in the last century, stating that they have been inadequate in addressing the challenges of the current century. He called for the countries of the Global South to stand together in unity, learn from one another, and leverage each other's strengths. "It is the need of the hour that the countries of the Global South unite, stand together in one voice, and become each other's strength," Modi said.
In recent years, India has positioned itself as a leading advocate for the concerns, challenges, and aspirations of the Global South, particularly the African continent. During its G20 presidency last year, India focused on issues such as inclusive growth, digital innovation, climate resilience, and equitable global health access, all with the aim of benefiting developing nations.
Modi also underscored the importance of cooperation in the area of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). He highlighted the Global DPI Repository, which was created during India's G20 presidency and represented the first-ever multilateral consensus on DPI. "The contribution of Digital Public Infrastructure in inclusive development is no less than a revolution," Modi said.
India has signed agreements to share its 'India Stack' with 12 partners from the Global South and has taken initiatives to connect various countries in the region with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). Modi also mentioned India's efforts under Mission LiFE, which prioritizes rooftop solar and renewable power generation not only in India but also in partner countries.
The Prime Minister emphasized that India's G20 agenda was shaped by the hopes, aspirations, and priorities of the Global South, leading to a historic moment when the African Union was granted permanent membership in the G20 - the first expansion of the bloc since its inception in 1999.
"The Voice of Global South Summit is a platform where we are giving voice to the needs and aspirations of those who have been unheard till now," Modi said, expressing his belief that unity among these nations is their greatest strength.
He concluded by stating that this unity is guiding the South toward a new direction and a brighter future.