<p>As World leaders and delegates arrive in India for the G20 summit this weekend, a majestic 'Nataraja' sculpture that reflects a centuries-old royal art form from India, awaits them. The world's largest idol of 'Nataraja' (Hindu God Shiva as the divine cosmic dancer) installed at the forecourt of the Bharat Mandapam G20 venue in New Delhi, traces its origins to Swamimalai in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, the land of the mighty Chola empire. WION spoke to Srikanda Sthapathy, the master craftsman in bronze castings, who along with his family and fellow artists sculpted the world's largest Nataraja idol in record time, ahead of the G20 summit.</p>

<p>"It all began with a tendering process and detailed scrutiny. Our family-run firm S. Devasenapathy Sthapathy Sons submitted our proposals, tax documents, cost estimates and a detailed presentation about how we would execute this project. With no expectations, we prayed to Lord Nataraja and submitted our tender," Srikanda Sthapathy recalls.<br />
<br />
After the scrutiny, we were contacted by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Ministry of Culture, and told that we would have to build the world's largest Nataraja sculpture in less than seven months, he says.</p>

<p>Twenty seven feet tall, 21 feet wide weighing 18 tonnes and priced at Rs. 10 crore (approx $1.2 million), this sculpture is inspired by the Chola-era Nataraja idols that were built by the Swamimalai Sthapathies of the Vishwakarma community, that Srikanda and his ancestors belong to.<br />
<br />
Swamimalai (Lord's Hill) is one of the abodes of Lord Murugan and is situated on the northern banks of river Cauvery. In addition to being a pilgrimage centre, the town is renowned for its bronze idols made by the Sthapathies, whose services were utilised by Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola for the construction of the Thanjavur Brihadeesawarar temple. It is said that the Sthapathies of the Viswakarama community have been passing on this ancient art form known as the 'lost-wax casting method', for more than 34 generations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Explaining the process of making the mould, Srikanda said, "We begin by preparing a mixture of paraffin wax, resin and ground nut oil. When exposed to fire, this material becomes very flexible and the Sthapathi works on the wax model and divides the sculpture into 120 parts, of which the dimensions of the face, torso, limbs etc. are fixed as per the Shilpashastras (scriptures). Once the wax model is ready, we coat it with alluvial soil from the Cauvery River basin and dry it in the sun. We apply multiple coats of soil on the wax models to make the mould stronger and also reinforce it with metal wires and rods." he said. The clay mould so derived is then heated (thereby melting the wax within) and the wax is drained out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The empty mould (known as 'karuvu' in Tamil) is then heated, while the 'ashtadhatu' eight metals (in their apt proportion) that are to be used for the sculpture are melted in a crucible to a liquid form. As the mould becomes red hot, it is buried in the ground. With only the mouth of the mould visible above the ground, the molten metal is poured in and the mould is gradually allowed to cool. Later, the reinforcement rods and wires are removed and the mould is broken open and a rough sculpture is obtained. Thereafter, it is chiselled, filed, engraved and its finer details are worked upon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The traditional idols we offer for temples are 'Panchaloha' (a five-metal alloy of gold, silver, copper, zinc, iron), whereas the world's largest Nataraja is made using an eight-metal alloy (copper, brass, lead, tin, mercury, iron, gold and silver). Using an eight-metal alloy will ensure that this sculpture lives for centuries without any wear and tear. In fact, as it ages it would begin to radiate its antique colour and only become more mesmerising to the beholder,"&nbsp; Srikanda says confidently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We see this opportunity to build the world's largest Nataraja, as a great honour for the 40 families and nearly 600 artists of Swamimalai, who are carrying the legacy of a Chola-era art form. The Nataraja undisputedly belongs to Tamil Nadu and we can't be happier, as our Nataraja stands tall at the Bharat Mandapam G20 venue which will host world leaders," he adds.</p>

<p>About a week ago, a team of craftsmen from Swamimalai were in New Delhi to carry out the finishing touches for the sculpture, ensuring that it is displayed in its full glory, ahead of the G20 Summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This statue of Nataraja, an important symbol of cosmic energy, creativity, and power, is going to be an attraction at the #G20 summit. This iconic project is carried out by the Ministry of Culture team IGNCA,"&nbsp;tweeted the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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As World leaders and delegates arrive in India for the G20 summit this weekend, a majestic 'Nataraja' sculpture that reflects a centuries-old royal art form from India, awaits them.

As World leaders and delegates arrive in India for the G20 summit this weekend, a majestic 'Nataraja' sculpture that reflects a centuries-old royal art form from India, awaits them. The world's largest idol of 'Nataraja' (Hindu God Shiva as the divine cosmic dancer) installed at the forecourt of the Bharat Mandapam G20 venue in New Delhi, traces its origins to Swamimalai in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, the land of the mighty Chola empire. WION spoke to Srikanda Sthapathy, the master craftsman in bronze castings, who along with his family and fellow artists sculpted the world's largest Nataraja idol in record time, ahead of the G20 summit. "It all began with a tendering process and detailed scrutiny. Our family-run firm S. Devasenapathy Sthapathy Sons submitted our proposals, tax documents, cost estimates and a detailed presentation about how we would execute this project. With no expectations, we prayed to Lord Nataraja and submitted our tender," Srikanda Sthapathy recalls. After the scrutiny, we were contacted by the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Ministry of Culture, and told that we would have to build the world's largest Nataraja sculpture in less than seven months, he says. Twenty seven feet tall, 21 feet wide weighing 18 tonnes and priced at Rs. 10 crore (approx $1.2 million), this sculpture is inspired by the Chola-era Nataraja idols that were built by the Swamimalai Sthapathies of the Vishwakarma community, that Srikanda and his ancestors belong to. Swamimalai (Lord's Hill) is one of the abodes of Lord Murugan and is situated on the northern banks of river Cauvery. In addition to being a pilgrimage centre, the town is renowned for its bronze idols made by the Sthapathies, whose services were utilised by Chola emperor Raja Raja Chola for the construction of the Thanjavur Brihadeesawarar temple. It is said that the Sthapathies of the Viswakarama community have been passing on this ancient art form known as the 'lost-wax casting method', for more than 34 generations. Explaining the process of making the mould, Srikanda said, "We begin by preparing a mixture of paraffin wax, resin and ground nut oil. When exposed to fire, this material becomes very flexible and the Sthapathi works on the wax model and divides the sculpture into 120 parts, of which the dimensions of the face, torso, limbs etc. are fixed as per the Shilpashastras (scriptures). Once the wax model is ready, we coat it with alluvial soil from the Cauvery River basin and dry it in the sun. We apply multiple coats of soil on the wax models to make the mould stronger and also reinforce it with metal wires and rods." he said. The clay mould so derived is then heated (thereby melting the wax within) and the wax is drained out. The empty mould (known as 'karuvu' in Tamil) is then heated, while the 'ashtadhatu' eight metals (in their apt proportion) that are to be used for the sculpture are melted in a crucible to a liquid form. As the mould becomes red hot, it is buried in the ground. With only the mouth of the mould visible above the ground, the molten metal is poured in and the mould is gradually allowed to cool. Later, the reinforcement rods and wires are removed and the mould is broken open and a rough sculpture is obtained. Thereafter, it is chiselled, filed, engraved and its finer details are worked upon. "The traditional idols we offer for temples are 'Panchaloha' (a five-metal alloy of gold, silver, copper, zinc, iron), whereas the world's largest Nataraja is made using an eight-metal alloy (copper, brass, lead, tin, mercury, iron, gold and silver). Using an eight-metal alloy will ensure that this sculpture lives for centuries without any wear and tear. In fact, as it ages it would begin to radiate its antique colour and only become more mesmerising to the beholder," Srikanda says confidently. "We see this opportunity to build the world's largest Nataraja, as a great honour for the 40 families and nearly 600 artists of Swamimalai, who are carrying the legacy of a Chola-era art form. The Nataraja undisputedly belongs to Tamil Nadu and we can't be happier, as our Nataraja stands tall at the Bharat Mandapam G20 venue which will host world leaders," he adds. About a week ago, a team of craftsmen from Swamimalai were in New Delhi to carry out the finishing touches for the sculpture, ensuring that it is displayed in its full glory, ahead of the G20 Summit. "This statue of Nataraja, an important symbol of cosmic energy, creativity, and power, is going to be an attraction at the #G20 summit. This iconic project is carried out by the Ministry of Culture team IGNCA," tweeted the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive: How Chola-era skill was used to sculpt 8-metal,18-tonne Nataraja idol, in 7 months

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<p>Ahead of the G20 summit that India will be hosting, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Chief Coordinator of India's G20 Presidency, has reiterated New Delhi's steadfast commitment to inclusive global governance and its unwavering support for the Global South. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Shringla articulated India's perspective on the presence of the African Union at the G20 grouping, emphasizing that, "In the realm of global governance, it's imperative that international organisations represent the realities of the 21st century." He further highlighted, saying, "The Prime Minister's proposal to G20 leaders to include the African Union as a permanent invitation in the G20 process is only reflective of our own position. We do believe that the African Union with its 54 members, with tremendous potential for the future, has to be a part of any international governance process, starting with an influential grouping like the G20."</p>

<p>India's commitment to the Global South was another key aspect of Shringla's address. He underlined, "India has always given high importance to our partners in the Global South." To ensure that the voices and concerns of these nations are heard and integrated into global deliberations, India organised the voice of the Global South Summit earlier this year. Shringla spoke about the importance of this initiative, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the post-COVID-19 pandemic world and the current geopolitical tensions. "It enabled us to understand the concerns that were there within the global South, which were quite considerable," he stated.</p>

<p>Turning the spotlight onto India's G20 Presidency, Shringla talked about an array of initiatives. These encompassed a global family philosophy, "vasudhaiva kutumbakam," an emphasis on promoting millets, advocating for sustainable lifestyles, reducing disaster risks, nurturing startups through "startup 20," fostering cybersecurity collaboration, and supporting chief scientists. Shringla expressed confidence that these contributions would leave a lasting legacy, asserting, "I think it will indeed be a legacy that will benefit all of mankind." Here's the full interview:</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;India is getting ready to host the mega summit, what kind of preparations are underway?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Harsh Vardhan Shringla:&nbsp;</strong>If you are not seeing me very perturbed, it's because preparations for the G20 Summit started well, earlier, probably one and a half years earlier. We were already looking at many of the logistical and other aspects relating to the summit. So how do you organize a successful summit? We have to keep in mind that we have never been president of the G20. Before is the first time in our history that we would receive such a large number of heads of state and government of such important and influential global players. So, how do we prepare for that situation, how do we prepare to ensure that the arrangements for such a critical event are not only conducive but in the best possible manner? So these arrangements, as I said, have been made well on time. Right now we're looking at some of the finishing touches. There is has also been a great deal of coordination. It's been a whole of government approach. In many senses, it's involved the whole of-society approach. We've got, we've been fortunate to get guidance from the Prime Minister himself. Many of the ministers have been very directly hands-on, External Affairs Minister has taken a very active role. We have a coordination committee headed by the principal secretary. And as you saw, we had the ninth meeting of the Coordination Committee, which includes all the important players in that process, the NSA, the cabinet secretary, all the important secretaries are part of the process. So there's a great deal of coordination on what is done, and so whichever different aspect, or agency of the government is involved, they are co-opted into this process. And so when it comes to decision making, an implementation of those decisions, it's a very well coordinated process. And so I think we are well placed today, as the summit will take place in less than a week's time from now. I think we are very confident that we have the means to achieve a very, very successful, sort of impeccable as the Prime Minister describes an impeccable and uniquely Indian presidency and Summit.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;So when it comes to participation, we have seen reports many leaders have confirmed that, Russian president is not coming because he's preoccupied, I would say to use the term. There are reports on China as well. Do you think the absence of two countries will make the grouping G18? What's your view about it?</p>

<p><strong>Harsh Vardhan Shringla:</strong>&nbsp;No, I'm not aware of, you know, the exact let's say attendance in terms of leaders. That's done by the protocol and others who deal with it. But the important thing is that we expect a very large number of leaders of the G20 process, every country will be represented officially at the G20. And we will have not only as I said our G 20. partners, we will also have invited countries that have been, that we have extended invitations specially to attend the G 20. We will also have the heads of international and regional organizations like the UN, IMF, World Bank, ASEAN the African Union, so it will be a very broadly representative group and I can assure you that every organization, and every country will be represented.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;Sir, you mentioned what African Union, now this is looking like a big substantive outcome from India's presidency. How do you see India's focus essentially being putting Africa at the high table, where we have seen at various organizations, including the UNSC the absence of Africa?</p>

<p><strong>Harsh Vardhan Shringla:</strong>&nbsp;Well, we've always maintained that for global governance, and for for international organizations to be successful in fulfilling their mandate. They must be broadly representative of the realities of the 21st century. And certainly, when we have maintained that position, I think it is important for us to also be able to practice it when possible. And so the Prime Minister's proposal to G 20 leaders to include the African Union as a permanent invitation in the G 20 process, I think is only reflective of our own position that has remained consistent over the years. And we do believe that the African Union with its 54 members, with tremendous potential for the future has to be a part of any international governance process, starting with an influential grouping like the G20.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;So you must be part of so many conversations all throughout the year, what kind of conversation took place? There must be consensus on several topics India must propose. There must be some challenges as well if you can talk about if you can sum it up, how difficult these conversations are.</p>

<p><strong>Harsh Vardhan Shringla:</strong>&nbsp;Well, I think the G 20 Sherpa has already spoken on this issue. He is leading the negotiation process. For any process that involves consensus, it means that every member within that group has to agree to any initiative that is taken. And from that perspective, I think any negotiating process will have its own challenges. But I think from that perspective, I also understand that we have had a singular success in terms of the outreach and in terms of the ability to garner the necessary support for the document which is really the outcome of negotiations and discussions and deliberations over almost a year.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;And are you hopeful of a joint statement...</p>

<p><strong>Harsh Vardhan Shringla:</strong>&nbsp;I see absolutely no reason to speculate on that. I think we will definitely have an outcome document. And we have, as I said, had excellent discussions over the course of the last nine or 10 months with our G 20 partners, there are a lot of substantive outcomes that are there in that document. Essentially, the world is looking at the G20 to provide solutions to global challenges under India's presidency and the G20 is one of the few groupings that can contribute in a very concrete manner to towards global, macro economic and financial stability. So the G 20 has to rise up to the task and I have no doubt that each and every one of the G 20 member states understands this, and understands the importance of the G 20 providing a strong and coherent message to the rest of the world in alleviating the global situation and contributing to that process.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;Global South is another topic that India has been focusing on. How does India bring the voice of the global south at this high table? How does the summit on Global South feed into India's presidency and the summit, which India will be hosting next few days?</p>

<p><strong>Harsh Vardhan Shringla:&nbsp;</strong>So, India has always I think, given high importance to our partners in the Global South. It is in that context that the Prime Minister reached out to leaders of the developing world and 125 countries joined us in what we call the voice of Global South Summit. And this was held well before we took on our presidency or before we took on our presidency so that we could get the views, concerns and expectations of our partners in the global south and factor those in, internalize those in our deliberations under our G-20 presidency. And I think that was a very useful exercise because it enabled us to understand the concerns that were there within the global South, which were quite considerable, as you can imagine, in today's situation, which is post the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of the current geopolitical tensions that prevail, developing countries are feeling the brunt of any of those situations. And they clearly had their own concerns which they voiced to us. And if you look at our broad priorities under the presidency, whether it is the process of providing momentum to the SDG process, whether it is in terms of encouraging digital transformations through digital public infrastructure, whether it's strengthening multilateral development banks, whether it is in fostering accelerated sustainable and inclusive growth, or whether it is in terms of, you know, a green development pact in terms of the lifestyle for environment, in terms of circular economy, in terms of energy transitions, and women-led development, I think these are the priorities that ready are those of the of the Global South. And so that imprint I think, will be very strong. And I think undoubtedly, when we have an outcome, it would be very clear that the G 20 members, whether developed countries or the largest emerging economies have all been one mind that we must work towards the global common good and the G 20 must contribute towards a human-centric globalization.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;So India has also invited nine countries. These are countries like UAE Singapore, their African countries, as well. I think this is the first time that so many African countries will be present at the high table. So if you can give perhaps a rationale or an idea on it..</p>

<p><strong>Harsh Vardhan Shringla: In every</strong>&nbsp;country, the host has the prerogative to invite a certain number of countries. Have focused on some of our partners, We have Bangladesh from our neighbourhood, we have Mauritius, another neighbour of ours in the Indian Ocean, and we have, as you say largest representation from Africa, Egypt, Comoros, South Africa, Mauritius well represented in our Presidency. We've also included, you know, some of our partners from the Gulf, UAE and Oman. And we've also included the ADB, the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure as international and regional organizations. And I think from that perspective, our presidency has been as inclusive as possible. We've tried to include as many countries in that process. We've also tried to include countries that are not part of the G20 process in our meetings. So wherever a country could contribute to a certain issue that was under discussion, we invited that country, had an interest we invited them. We've invited all of our immediate neighbours in many of our meetings. So from that perspective, I think we have tried to make our presidency both representative and inclusive.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;So my last question to you is post the G 20. Summit, How do you see the Indian imprint on global governance and global architecture which is now shaping up very fast?</p>

<p><strong>Harsh Vardhan Shringla:</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;Well, if you look at our theme, "vasudhaiva kutumbakam", it is a philosophy that has always been part of India's engagement to the wider world. And today's context, I think, we are putting it in a manner that is very, very relevant to the world we see today. How can we work collaboratively to create a new global order that reflects the concept of one earth one family one future, unless we work together we are not going to have a future that will be you know, one that we would like to see for our children and grandchildren and future generations. So our appeal to not only our G 20 partners, but the rest of the world is that follow our example of working for the global common good with during COVID, whether it's in the post-COVID period, how can we work to use our experience our achievements, you know, to help other countries to create a world order that is that is based on greater cooperation, and one that I think takes into account the serious concerns of the developing world, the Global South. And I think that is the imprint that we would certainly leave behind in the G 20. And that imprint, which we have, I think created will also be carried forward by many of our partners, whether it's Brazil or South Africa, and no doubt that legacy will be there to stay. India's initiatives on the global high table, whether it is the concept of "vasudhaiva kutumbakam", the larger philosophy, whether it's in the concept of millets, whether it's in the concept of lifestyle for Environment and Sustainable Development, whether it is in the concept of disaster relief reduction, or startup 20 or even collaboration on the cybersecurity, or chief scientists, etc. whatever contributions were made in this endeavour will remain and will continue. And I think it will indeed be a legacy that will benefit all of mankind.</p>

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Ahead of the G20 summit that India will be hosting, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Chief Coordinator of India's G20 Presidency, has reiterated New Delhi's steadfast commitment to inclusive global governance and its unwavering support for the Global South.

Ahead of the G20 summit that India will be hosting, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Chief Coordinator of India's G20 Presidency, has reiterated New Delhi's steadfast commitment to inclusive global governance and its unwavering support for the Global South. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Shringla articulated India's perspective on the presence of the African Union at the G20 grouping, emphasizing that, "In the realm of global governance, it's imperative that international organisations represent the realities of the 21st century." He further highlighted, saying, "The Prime Minister's proposal to G20 leaders to include the African Union as a permanent invitation in the G20 process is only reflective of our own position. We do believe that the African Union with its 54 members, with tremendous potential for the future, has to be a part of any international governance process, starting with an influential grouping like the G20." India's commitment to the Global South was another key aspect of Shringla's address. He underlined, "India has always given high importance to our partners in the Global South." To ensure that the voices and concerns of these nations are heard and integrated into global deliberations, India organised the voice of the Global South Summit earlier this year. Shringla spoke about the importance of this initiative, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the post-COVID-19 pandemic world and the current geopolitical tensions. "It enabled us to understand the concerns that were there within the global South, which were quite considerable," he stated. Turning the spotlight onto India's G20 Presidency, Shringla talked about an array of initiatives. These encompassed a global family philosophy, "vasudhaiva kutumbakam," an emphasis on promoting millets, advocating for sustainable lifestyles, reducing disaster risks, nurturing startups through "startup 20," fostering cybersecurity collaboration, and supporting chief scientists. Shringla expressed confidence that these contributions would leave a lasting legacy, asserting, "I think it will indeed be a legacy that will benefit all of mankind." Here's the full interview: WION: India is getting ready to host the mega summit, what kind of preparations are underway? Harsh Vardhan Shringla: If you are not seeing me very perturbed, it's because preparations for the G20 Summit started well, earlier, probably one and a half years earlier. We were already looking at many of the logistical and other aspects relating to the summit. So how do you organize a successful summit? We have to keep in mind that we have never been president of the G20. Before is the first time in our history that we would receive such a large number of heads of state and government of such important and influential global players. So, how do we prepare for that situation, how do we prepare to ensure that the arrangements for such a critical event are not only conducive but in the best possible manner? So these arrangements, as I said, have been made well on time. Right now we're looking at some of the finishing touches. There is has also been a great deal of coordination. It's been a whole of government approach. In many senses, it's involved the whole of-society approach. We've got, we've been fortunate to get guidance from the Prime Minister himself. Many of the ministers have been very directly hands-on, External Affairs Minister has taken a very active role. We have a coordination committee headed by the principal secretary. And as you saw, we had the ninth meeting of the Coordination Committee, which includes all the important players in that process, the NSA, the cabinet secretary, all the important secretaries are part of the process. So there's a great deal of coordination on what is done, and so whichever different aspect, or agency of the government is involved, they are co-opted into this process. And so when it comes to decision making, an implementation of those decisions, it's a very well coordinated process. And so I think we are well placed today, as the summit will take place in less than a week's time from now. I think we are very confident that we have the means to achieve a very, very successful, sort of impeccable as the Prime Minister describes an impeccable and uniquely Indian presidency and Summit. WION: So when it comes to participation, we have seen reports many leaders have confirmed that, Russian president is not coming because he's preoccupied, I would say to use the term. There are reports on China as well. Do you think the absence of two countries will make the grouping G18? What's your view about it? Harsh Vardhan Shringla: No, I'm not aware of, you know, the exact let's say attendance in terms of leaders. That's done by the protocol and others who deal with it. But the important thing is that we expect a very large number of leaders of the G20 process, every country will be represented officially at the G20. And we will have not only as I said our G 20. partners, we will also have invited countries that have been, that we have extended invitations specially to attend the G 20. We will also have the heads of international and regional organizations like the UN, IMF, World Bank, ASEAN the African Union, so it will be a very broadly representative group and I can assure you that every organization, and every country will be represented. WION: Sir, you mentioned what African Union, now this is looking like a big substantive outcome from India's presidency. How do you see India's focus essentially being putting Africa at the high table, where we have seen at various organizations, including the UNSC the absence of Africa? Harsh Vardhan Shringla: Well, we've always maintained that for global governance, and for for international organizations to be successful in fulfilling their mandate. They must be broadly representative of the realities of the 21st century. And certainly, when we have maintained that position, I think it is important for us to also be able to practice it when possible. And so the Prime Minister's proposal to G 20 leaders to include the African Union as a permanent invitation in the G 20 process, I think is only reflective of our own position that has remained consistent over the years. And we do believe that the African Union with its 54 members, with tremendous potential for the future has to be a part of any international governance process, starting with an influential grouping like the G20. WION: So you must be part of so many conversations all throughout the year, what kind of conversation took place? There must be consensus on several topics India must propose. There must be some challenges as well if you can talk about if you can sum it up, how difficult these conversations are. Harsh Vardhan Shringla: Well, I think the G 20 Sherpa has already spoken on this issue. He is leading the negotiation process. For any process that involves consensus, it means that every member within that group has to agree to any initiative that is taken. And from that perspective, I think any negotiating process will have its own challenges. But I think from that perspective, I also understand that we have had a singular success in terms of the outreach and in terms of the ability to garner the necessary support for the document which is really the outcome of negotiations and discussions and deliberations over almost a year. WION: And are you hopeful of a joint statement... Harsh Vardhan Shringla: I see absolutely no reason to speculate on that. I think we will definitely have an outcome document. And we have, as I said, had excellent discussions over the course of the last nine or 10 months with our G 20 partners, there are a lot of substantive outcomes that are there in that document. Essentially, the world is looking at the G20 to provide solutions to global challenges under India's presidency and the G20 is one of the few groupings that can contribute in a very concrete manner to towards global, macro economic and financial stability. So the G 20 has to rise up to the task and I have no doubt that each and every one of the G 20 member states understands this, and understands the importance of the G 20 providing a strong and coherent message to the rest of the world in alleviating the global situation and contributing to that process. WION: Global South is another topic that India has been focusing on. How does India bring the voice of the global south at this high table? How does the summit on Global South feed into India's presidency and the summit, which India will be hosting next few days? Harsh Vardhan Shringla: So, India has always I think, given high importance to our partners in the Global South. It is in that context that the Prime Minister reached out to leaders of the developing world and 125 countries joined us in what we call the voice of Global South Summit. And this was held well before we took on our presidency or before we took on our presidency so that we could get the views, concerns and expectations of our partners in the global south and factor those in, internalize those in our deliberations under our G-20 presidency. And I think that was a very useful exercise because it enabled us to understand the concerns that were there within the global South, which were quite considerable, as you can imagine, in today's situation, which is post the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of the current geopolitical tensions that prevail, developing countries are feeling the brunt of any of those situations. And they clearly had their own concerns which they voiced to us. And if you look at our broad priorities under the presidency, whether it is the process of providing momentum to the SDG process, whether it is in terms of encouraging digital transformations through digital public infrastructure, whether it's strengthening multilateral development banks, whether it is in fostering accelerated sustainable and inclusive growth, or whether it is in terms of, you know, a green development pact in terms of the lifestyle for environment, in terms of circular economy, in terms of energy transitions, and women-led development, I think these are the priorities that ready are those of the of the Global South. And so that imprint I think, will be very strong. And I think undoubtedly, when we have an outcome, it would be very clear that the G 20 members, whether developed countries or the largest emerging economies have all been one mind that we must work towards the global common good and the G 20 must contribute towards a human-centric globalization. WION: So India has also invited nine countries. These are countries like UAE Singapore, their African countries, as well. I think this is the first time that so many African countries will be present at the high table. So if you can give perhaps a rationale or an idea on it.. Harsh Vardhan Shringla: In every country, the host has the prerogative to invite a certain number of countries. Have focused on some of our partners, We have Bangladesh from our neighbourhood, we have Mauritius, another neighbour of ours in the Indian Ocean, and we have, as you say largest representation from Africa, Egypt, Comoros, South Africa, Mauritius well represented in our Presidency. We've also included, you know, some of our partners from the Gulf, UAE and Oman. And we've also included the ADB, the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure as international and regional organizations. And I think from that perspective, our presidency has been as inclusive as possible. We've tried to include as many countries in that process. We've also tried to include countries that are not part of the G20 process in our meetings. So wherever a country could contribute to a certain issue that was under discussion, we invited that country, had an interest we invited them. We've invited all of our immediate neighbours in many of our meetings. So from that perspective, I think we have tried to make our presidency both representative and inclusive. WION: So my last question to you is post the G 20. Summit, How do you see the Indian imprint on global governance and global architecture which is now shaping up very fast? Harsh Vardhan Shringla: Well, if you look at our theme, "vasudhaiva kutumbakam", it is a philosophy that has always been part of India's engagement to the wider world. And today's context, I think, we are putting it in a manner that is very, very relevant to the world we see today. How can we work collaboratively to create a new global order that reflects the concept of one earth one family one future, unless we work together we are not going to have a future that will be you know, one that we would like to see for our children and grandchildren and future generations. So our appeal to not only our G 20 partners, but the rest of the world is that follow our example of working for the global common good with during COVID, whether it's in the post-COVID period, how can we work to use our experience our achievements, you know, to help other countries to create a world order that is that is based on greater cooperation, and one that I think takes into account the serious concerns of the developing world, the Global South. And I think that is the imprint that we would certainly leave behind in the G 20. And that imprint, which we have, I think created will also be carried forward by many of our partners, whether it's Brazil or South Africa, and no doubt that legacy will be there to stay. India's initiatives on the global high table, whether it is the concept of "vasudhaiva kutumbakam", the larger philosophy, whether it's in the concept of millets, whether it's in the concept of lifestyle for Environment and Sustainable Development, whether it is in the concept of disaster relief reduction, or startup 20 or even collaboration on the cybersecurity, or chief scientists, etc. whatever contributions were made in this endeavour will remain and will continue. And I think it will indeed be a legacy that will benefit all of mankind. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ahead of G20 summit, Shringla emphasises on Global South focus, African Union inclusion

<p>The G20 bloc on Saturday failed to reach a consensus on trebling of renewable energy deployment, phasing down of fossil fuels and plans to finance transition&nbsp;during the 4th G20 Energy Ministerial Meeting held in the southwestern Indian state of Goa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meeting was expected to be one of the most important get-togethers of the 20-nation bloc that&nbsp;accounts for more than three-quarters of global emissions and gross domestic product. Despite high expectations, there remained a near breakdown in talks as countries refused to reach a middle ground.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No joint&nbsp;communique</strong></h2>

<p>Instead of a joint communique, released when there is complete agreement between member nations on all issues, the bloc published an outcome statement and a chair summary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We had a great conference. I think it is one of the most successful conferences in the history of G20. We had an agreement on 22 paragraphs out of 29 and 7 paragraphs were the chair’s summary," said&nbsp;Union Minister for Power and Renewable Energy RK Singh.</p>

<p>"By and large everybody — there was a common sort of objective, and everybody all countries were on the same page insofar as the need to state steps to combat climate change is concerned,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-g20-presidency-weaving-inclusive-growth-583617"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India's G20 Presidency: Weaving inclusive growth</strong></a></p>

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<p>Despite not achieving agreement on major issues, Singh added that the talks laid down important groundwork ahead of the COP28&nbsp;climate talks later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Different countries have their own natural set of circumstances which shape their perspectives on different questions. So, there you have reservations. The rule in G20 is that every issue is decided by consensus by unanimity. Even if one country has a different view, that doesn’t go into the main document,” he said, adding that “there was a consensus among all of us that this [G20 meeting] has formed the basis for COP 28 and if this had not been so successful, then the next COP would have been very difficult”.</p>

<p>Without naming the countries, Singh said some countries wanted to use carbon capture instead of a phase-down of fossil fuels.&nbsp;Saudi Arabia, Russia, China, South Africa and Indonesia are all known to oppose the goal of tripling renewable energy capacity this decade.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-plans-to-achieve-50-non-fossil-installed-capacity-by-2030-says-pm-narendra-modi-at-g20-energy-meeting-618534"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;India plans to achieve 50% non-fossil installed capacity by 2030, says PM Narendra Modi at G20 Energy Meeting</strong></a></p>

<p>India received the G20 presidency last year and is scheduled to host the breakthrough summit later this year. The government has been hosting G20 side&nbsp;events throughout the year.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The G20 bloc on Saturday failed to reach a consensus on trebling of renewable energy deployment, phasing down of fossil fuels and plans to finance transition during the 4th G20 Energy Ministerial Meeting held in the southwestern Indian state of Goa.

The G20 bloc on Saturday failed to reach a consensus on trebling of renewable energy deployment, phasing down of fossil fuels and plans to finance transition during the 4th G20 Energy Ministerial Meeting held in the southwestern Indian state of Goa. The meeting was expected to be one of the most important get-togethers of the 20-nation bloc that accounts for more than three-quarters of global emissions and gross domestic product. Despite high expectations, there remained a near breakdown in talks as countries refused to reach a middle ground. No joint communique Instead of a joint communique, released when there is complete agreement between member nations on all issues, the bloc published an outcome statement and a chair summary. “We had a great conference. I think it is one of the most successful conferences in the history of G20. We had an agreement on 22 paragraphs out of 29 and 7 paragraphs were the chair’s summary," said Union Minister for Power and Renewable Energy RK Singh. "By and large everybody — there was a common sort of objective, and everybody all countries were on the same page insofar as the need to state steps to combat climate change is concerned,” he added. WATCH | India's G20 Presidency: Weaving inclusive growth × Despite not achieving agreement on major issues, Singh added that the talks laid down important groundwork ahead of the COP28 climate talks later this year. “Different countries have their own natural set of circumstances which shape their perspectives on different questions. So, there you have reservations. The rule in G20 is that every issue is decided by consensus by unanimity. Even if one country has a different view, that doesn’t go into the main document,” he said, adding that “there was a consensus among all of us that this [G20 meeting] has formed the basis for COP 28 and if this had not been so successful, then the next COP would have been very difficult”. Without naming the countries, Singh said some countries wanted to use carbon capture instead of a phase-down of fossil fuels. Saudi Arabia, Russia, China, South Africa and Indonesia are all known to oppose the goal of tripling renewable energy capacity this decade. Also read | India plans to achieve 50% non-fossil installed capacity by 2030, says PM Narendra Modi at G20 Energy Meeting India received the G20 presidency last year and is scheduled to host the breakthrough summit later this year. The government has been hosting G20 side events throughout the year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

G20 fails to reach consensus on cutting fossil fuels at energy ministerial meeting

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant move to amplify Africa's representation on the global stage and shape the future of international affairs. According to sources, PM Modi has written to his G20 counterparts, proposing the African Union's full membership at the upcoming Delhi Summit of G20, as requested by the African Union.</p>

<h2><strong>Advocacy for a just, inclusive global architecture</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi has taken a leading role in championing this proposal, demonstrating his strong support and advocacy for it, the sources said adding PM believes that granting full membership to the African Union in the G20 would be a step towards establishing a more just, fair, inclusive, and representative global architecture and governance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stoltenberg-expected-to-be-asked-to-extend-another-term-as-nato-chief-amid-replacement-challenges-605543">Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges</a></p>

<p>PM Modi particularly emphasises the importance of amplifying the voice of countries from the Global South, especially African nations, on international platforms.</p>

<h2><strong>Prioritising African countries in G20 agenda</strong></h2>

<p>As part of India's G20 Presidency, Prime Minister Modi has been dedicated to incorporating the priorities of African countries into the G20 agenda.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-calls-on-nawaz-sharif-to-become-pakistan-pm-again-lead-election-campaign-605527">Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign</a></p>

<p>India and Africa share deep historical and cultural ties, making them natural partners. During a recent address at the 18th CII-EXIM Bank Conclave on 'India-Africa Growth Partnership' in New Delhi, Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal highlighted the influence of Mahatma Gandhi's principles of truth and non-violence, which originated in South Africa, as well as the legacy carried forward by Nelson Mandela.</p>

<h2><strong>Promoting Africa's global rise</strong></h2>

<p>Minister Goyal stressed that India strongly believes in the global significance of Africa's rise and is actively working to achieve this ambition in an accelerated manner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India aims to become the voice of the Global South, representing their interests at multilateral forums. The minister emphasised the need to create a powerful collective voice from the Global South to shape global geopolitics and ensure equitable and inclusive growth.</p>

<h2><strong>India's support for Africa</strong></h2>

<p>Goyal reiterated that India is a true friend and ally to Africa, providing support during times of need. India assisted African nations during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the provision of medicines, vaccines, and other essential equipment.&nbsp;India's actions reflect the principle of <em>Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam</em>, considering the world as one family.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

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<p>Overall, Prime Minister Modi's proposal to grant the African Union full membership in the G20 demonstrates India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant move to amplify Africa's representation on the global stage and shape the future of international affairs.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant move to amplify Africa's representation on the global stage and shape the future of international affairs. According to sources, PM Modi has written to his G20 counterparts, proposing the African Union's full membership at the upcoming Delhi Summit of G20, as requested by the African Union. Advocacy for a just, inclusive global architecture Prime Minister Modi has taken a leading role in championing this proposal, demonstrating his strong support and advocacy for it, the sources said adding PM believes that granting full membership to the African Union in the G20 would be a step towards establishing a more just, fair, inclusive, and representative global architecture and governance. Also Read | Stoltenberg expected to be asked to extend another term as NATO Chief amid replacement challenges PM Modi particularly emphasises the importance of amplifying the voice of countries from the Global South, especially African nations, on international platforms. Prioritising African countries in G20 agenda As part of India's G20 Presidency, Prime Minister Modi has been dedicated to incorporating the priorities of African countries into the G20 agenda. Also Read | Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign India and Africa share deep historical and cultural ties, making them natural partners. During a recent address at the 18th CII-EXIM Bank Conclave on 'India-Africa Growth Partnership' in New Delhi, Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal highlighted the influence of Mahatma Gandhi's principles of truth and non-violence, which originated in South Africa, as well as the legacy carried forward by Nelson Mandela. Promoting Africa's global rise Minister Goyal stressed that India strongly believes in the global significance of Africa's rise and is actively working to achieve this ambition in an accelerated manner. India aims to become the voice of the Global South, representing their interests at multilateral forums. The minister emphasised the need to create a powerful collective voice from the Global South to shape global geopolitics and ensure equitable and inclusive growth. India's support for Africa Goyal reiterated that India is a true friend and ally to Africa, providing support during times of need. India assisted African nations during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the provision of medicines, vaccines, and other essential equipment. India's actions reflect the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, considering the world as one family. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × Overall, Prime Minister Modi's proposal to grant the African Union full membership in the G20 demonstrates India's commitment to strengthening Africa's representation and partnership in shaping global affairs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Indian PM Modi proposes African Union’s full membership at New Delhi G20 Summit

<p>India remains non-committal to inviting Ukraine to the G20 summit, scheduled to be held later this year in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a special briefing on Thursday to mark nine years of the Narendra Modi government wherein he made it clear&nbsp;that no invitation had been sent to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"G20 is only for members. Haven’t reviewed the list nor has anyone talked to us about it," said Jaishankar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The EAM confirmed invites for the summit had been sent, immediately after India assumed the presidency. The statement by Jaishankar effectively brings an end to rumours that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may get the opportunity to address the G20 countries during the summit.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"G20 is only for members. Haven’t reviewed the list nor has anyone talked to us about it", EAM Jaishankar on if Ukraine president Ukraine Zelenskyy be invited for G20 summit in Delhi</p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1666702195457429505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Jaishankar's statement should not come as a surprise as he has previously iterated that&nbsp;G20 was not a platform to debate international peace and security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think our contribution was to get G20 back to the G20's real business. The G20 is not the UN Security Council. It is not the primary forum to debate international peace and security," Jaishankar had said during an event in March.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added issues such as&nbsp;international peace and security did matter, but other issues such as&nbsp;food and energy security, green financing for nations took prominence on the G20 stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We actually got something novel for the G20 to look at -- Global Skills Mapping. Where are the skills in the world and where&nbsp;is the demand in the world. They are in two different geographies. So, how do we actually put that together? I think that is a very interesting avenue which we have opened up for G20."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kyiv's attempts to secure participation&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In April, Ukraine's first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova visited New Delhi and attempted to set the ball rolling for Ukraine's participation in the G20 summit.</p>

<p>"I think India is a global player. It is really a 'Vishwaguru' of the world. We are feeling the pain by actually fighting for the values. This is about justice... Russia is questioning the very existence of my country. In our history of 1,500 years, Ukraine never attacked any country," said&nbsp;Dzheppar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the statement by Jaishankar may have come as a blow to Kyiv's hopes.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-modi-speaks-to-ukraine-president-zelensky-459763"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi speaks to Ukraine President Zelensky</strong></a></p>

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<h2>A tall order&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Zelensky addressing the G20 summit was always going to be a tall order, especially considering Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to attend the meet in New Delhi.</p>

<p>Even after the foreign ministers' meeting held in March, India said&nbsp;the differences over Ukraine "could not be reconciled".</p>

<p>"We tried, but the gap between the countries was too much," said Jaishankar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the G20, which includes the world's 19 wealthiest nations plus the European Union, accounts for 85 per cent&nbsp;of global economic output and two-thirds of its population.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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India remains non-committal to inviting Ukraine to the G20 summit, scheduled to be held later this year in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a special briefing on Thursday to mark nine years of the Narendra Modi government wherein he made it clear that no invitation had been sent to Ukraine.

India remains non-committal to inviting Ukraine to the G20 summit, scheduled to be held later this year in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a special briefing on Thursday to mark nine years of the Narendra Modi government wherein he made it clear that no invitation had been sent to Ukraine. "G20 is only for members. Haven’t reviewed the list nor has anyone talked to us about it," said Jaishankar. The EAM confirmed invites for the summit had been sent, immediately after India assumed the presidency. The statement by Jaishankar effectively brings an end to rumours that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may get the opportunity to address the G20 countries during the summit. "G20 is only for members. Haven’t reviewed the list nor has anyone talked to us about it", EAM Jaishankar on if Ukraine president Ukraine Zelenskyy be invited for G20 summit in Delhi — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 8, 2023 × Jaishankar's statement should not come as a surprise as he has previously iterated that G20 was not a platform to debate international peace and security. "I think our contribution was to get G20 back to the G20's real business. The G20 is not the UN Security Council. It is not the primary forum to debate international peace and security," Jaishankar had said during an event in March. He added issues such as international peace and security did matter, but other issues such as food and energy security, green financing for nations took prominence on the G20 stage. "We actually got something novel for the G20 to look at -- Global Skills Mapping. Where are the skills in the world and where is the demand in the world. They are in two different geographies. So, how do we actually put that together? I think that is a very interesting avenue which we have opened up for G20." Kyiv's attempts to secure participation In April, Ukraine's first deputy foreign affairs minister Emine Dzhaparova visited New Delhi and attempted to set the ball rolling for Ukraine's participation in the G20 summit. "I think India is a global player. It is really a 'Vishwaguru' of the world. We are feeling the pain by actually fighting for the values. This is about justice... Russia is questioning the very existence of my country. In our history of 1,500 years, Ukraine never attacked any country," said Dzheppar. However, the statement by Jaishankar may have come as a blow to Kyiv's hopes. WATCH | Indian PM Modi speaks to Ukraine President Zelensky × A tall order Zelensky addressing the G20 summit was always going to be a tall order, especially considering Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to attend the meet in New Delhi. Even after the foreign ministers' meeting held in March, India said the differences over Ukraine "could not be reconciled". "We tried, but the gap between the countries was too much," said Jaishankar. Notably, the G20, which includes the world's 19 wealthiest nations plus the European Union, accounts for 85 per cent of global economic output and two-thirds of its population. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India's foreign minister Jaishankar confirms Ukraine has not been invited to G20 summit

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday unveiled the theme for the New Delhi G20 summit, scheduled to be held in September 2023. India is poised to assume the Presidency of the Group of 20 or G20 countries for one year, starting December 1, 2022. The country will host over 200 meetings, addressing 32 different sectors, during the period between December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The G-20 Summit in India in 2023 will reflect the spirit of वसुधैव कुटुंबकम…One Earth, One Family, One Future! <a href="https://t.co/FVEPBOTKev">pic.twitter.com/FVEPBOTKev</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1589958522091229184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The first G20 sherpa meet under the Indian presidency will take place between December 4th to December 7th, 2022 in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan state in North India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/whats-g20-all-about-what-does-it-do-how-does-it-work-424950">What's G20 all about? What does it do, how does it work?</a></strong></p>

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<p>India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also unveiled the logo and website for India’s G-20 presidency. Modi said that thousands of people shared their ideas and suggestions for the G20 logo and theme. He said that the G20 presidency offers India an opportunity to contribute to the global agenda.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The symbol of the lotus in the G20 logo is a representation of hope. <a href="https://t.co/HTceHGsbFu">pic.twitter.com/HTceHGsbFu</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1589941956637261825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>“India's G20 presidency is coming at a time of crisis and chaos in the world. The world is going through the aftereffects of disruptive once-in-a-century pandemic, conflicts and lot of economic uncertainty,” he said. “The symbol of lotus in the G20 logo is a representation of hope in these times. No matter how adverse the circumstances, the lotus still blooms.”</p>

<p>“In Indian culture, both the goddesses of knowledge and prosperity are seated on a lotus. This is what the world needs the most today. Shared knowledge that helps us overcome our circumstances and shared prosperity that reaches the last person at the last mile. This is why the earth is placed on lotus too. The seven petals on the lotus in the logo are also significant. It represents the seven continents. Seven is also the number of notes in the universal language of music. In music, when the seven notes come together, they create perfect harmony,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Italy and Indonesia, along with India, are part of the G20 troika: past, present, and incoming presidencies. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced his state visit to Indonesia next week, while unveiling the theme, logo, and website for New Delhi G20 summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Group of Twenty countries represents nearly 90 per cent of the global gross national product, 80 per cent of world trade (including EU intra-trade), and two-thirds of the world’s population. India has been a member of the G20 since its inception in 1999. Its other 19 members are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.&nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday unveiled the theme for the New Delhi G20 summit, scheduled to be held in September 2023. India is poised to assume the Presidency of the Group of 20 or G20 countries for one year, starting December 1, 2022.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday unveiled the theme for the New Delhi G20 summit, scheduled to be held in September 2023. India is poised to assume the Presidency of the Group of 20 or G20 countries for one year, starting December 1, 2022. The country will host over 200 meetings, addressing 32 different sectors, during the period between December 1, 2022, to November 30, 2023. The G-20 Summit in India in 2023 will reflect the spirit of वसुधैव कुटुंबकम…One Earth, One Family, One Future! pic.twitter.com/FVEPBOTKev — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 8, 2022 × The first G20 sherpa meet under the Indian presidency will take place between December 4th to December 7th, 2022 in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan state in North India. WATCH | What's G20 all about? What does it do, how does it work? × India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi also unveiled the logo and website for India’s G-20 presidency. Modi said that thousands of people shared their ideas and suggestions for the G20 logo and theme. He said that the G20 presidency offers India an opportunity to contribute to the global agenda. The symbol of the lotus in the G20 logo is a representation of hope. pic.twitter.com/HTceHGsbFu — PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 8, 2022 × “India's G20 presidency is coming at a time of crisis and chaos in the world. The world is going through the aftereffects of disruptive once-in-a-century pandemic, conflicts and lot of economic uncertainty,” he said. “The symbol of lotus in the G20 logo is a representation of hope in these times. No matter how adverse the circumstances, the lotus still blooms.” “In Indian culture, both the goddesses of knowledge and prosperity are seated on a lotus. This is what the world needs the most today. Shared knowledge that helps us overcome our circumstances and shared prosperity that reaches the last person at the last mile. This is why the earth is placed on lotus too. The seven petals on the lotus in the logo are also significant. It represents the seven continents. Seven is also the number of notes in the universal language of music. In music, when the seven notes come together, they create perfect harmony,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. Italy and Indonesia, along with India, are part of the G20 troika: past, present, and incoming presidencies. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced his state visit to Indonesia next week, while unveiling the theme, logo, and website for New Delhi G20 summit. The Group of Twenty countries represents nearly 90 per cent of the global gross national product, 80 per cent of world trade (including EU intra-trade), and two-thirds of the world’s population. India has been a member of the G20 since its inception in 1999. Its other 19 members are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Shared knowledge and prosperity’: India’s PM Modi unveils theme, logo for New Delhi G20 summit

<p>After riding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-warns-china-of-serious-consequences-if-hong-kong-rights-not-honoured-232315">China</a>'s demand train for nearly two decades, Asia's coal industry is looking to a future of smaller markets and slimmer pickings, as buying declines in the world's second-biggest economy and climate change concerns blunt demand.</p>

<p>By far the biggest user of coal-fired power, China is buying less thermal coal from global markets, said delegates to Asia's premier coal conference last month in Bali, both as renewables gain market share and as it digs up more of its own supply.</p>

<p>A backlash against coal is also growing in the West. Last week, investors managing nearly half the world's invested capital demanded ahead of a Group of 20 summits in Osaka that governments take urgent action on climate change.</p>

<p>Delegates to Coaltrans in Bali, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-troops-flood-jakarta-streets-after-post-election-riots-220989">Indonesia</a>, however, said that while coal's glory days are done, reports of its imminent demise have been greatly exaggerated.</p>

<p>"Coal will continue to provide low-cost energy. We are looking at increasing demand in Southeast Asia, so we are still positive," said Hendri Tan, marketing director at PT Adaro Indonesia, a unit of PT Adaro Energy, Indonesia's second-biggest coal producer.</p>

<p>Indonesia is the world's biggest exporter of thermal coal, used primarily for power generation, shipping out 429 million tonnes last year and accounting for 43% of the 1 billion-tonne-a-year seaborne market, according to Australian government data.</p>

<p>Around 124 gigawatts (GW) of coal-fired power capacity is under development in Southeast and South Asia, both key markets for Indonesia, and that is expected to offset declining demand from China, said the chairman of Indonesia Coal Mining Association, Pandu Sjahrir.</p>

<p>Indonesia itself is expected to add some 50 million tonnes a year of coal-fired power demand by 2023, he said, a rise of 55% that would make it one of Asia's biggest consumers.</p>

<p>As China takes less, economies like India, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Philippines are also expected to pick up the slack, delegates said.</p>

<p>Between 2014 and 2018, China's coal demand fell by 2.4%, while India's swelled by 16.7%, according to BP's Statistical Review of World Energy report this year. Over the same period, Vietnam's coal use grew by 65% and Indonesia's by 36%, helping to offset falls in the United States, Japan and Germany as well.</p>

<p><br />
<strong>Beach parties end, belly dancers, stay home</strong></p>

<p>Indonesia shot to prominence as a coal producer last decade as it dug out and shipped the fuel to meet power demand from China, eventually outstripping then leader Australia.</p>

<p>As China's manufacturing might grow, so too did its hunger for electricity, turning it into a net thermal coal importer around 2004. That was a bonanza for miners and helped establish Coaltrans in Bali as the industry's main event in Asia.</p>

<p><br />
During the boom years, companies would battle to outdo each other at Coaltrans with lavish beach parties. One Uzbekistan company flew in belly dancers to entertain potential customers drinking free-flow vodka and eating caviar, delegates said.</p>

<p>"People were throwing money at everything," said SMG Consultants' Alistair MacDonald, who has attended Coaltrans since 2000. But times have changed, he said.</p>

<p>"The bankers aren't here. A lot of the services like insurers aren't here any more," he said. "It's a lot more domestic (Indonesian) players, and they want to be perceived as energy companies, not as coal companies."</p>

<p>Staring at prospects of tougher conditions ahead, Indonesia's large thermal coal miners are diversifying into other geographies and other industries, Sacha Winzenried, a partner at PriceWaterhouseCoopers, told Reuters.</p>

<p>"They are looking into renewables, other infrastructure, supply chain support such as water, utilities, shipping and logistics," Winzenried said.</p>

<p>Indonesia's Adaro Energy bought an Australian coal mine from Rio Tinto last year. And Indonesian state coal miner Bukit Asam is targeting commercial operation of four coal processing plants in South Sumatra that would extract gas from, as well as burn, coal.</p>

<p><strong>Financing dries up</strong></p>

<p>Delegates also noted the difficulty of getting financing for their businesses, working capital and further investments, and some were pessimistic on the coal industry's longevity.</p>

<p>One mining engineer in his fifties, who had spent most of his career in coal at a major miner and also had an MBA, saw his career options as limited.</p>

<p>"I've spent twenty years in coal. Where can I go next?" he said. "I would not recommend any young people join this industry."</p>

<p>Still, renewables are not expected to make the same inroads in emerging Asian economies as in developed nations, because Asian governments are working to provide cheap baseload power from coal, and renewables can't compete on scale or price, said an industry analyst, declining to be named due to his listed company's policy.</p>

<p>"Less coal will mean a less polluted world," he said. "But if you don't want (coal) to exist, then you have to come up with a realistic alternative."</p>


After riding China's demand train for nearly two decades, Asia's coal industry is looking to a future of smaller markets and slimmer pickings, as buying declines in the world's second-biggest economy and climate change concerns blunt demand.

After riding China's demand train for nearly two decades, Asia's coal industry is looking to a future of smaller markets and slimmer pickings, as buying declines in the world's second-biggest economy and climate change concerns blunt demand. By far the biggest user of coal-fired power, China is buying less thermal coal from global markets, said delegates to Asia's premier coal conference last month in Bali, both as renewables gain market share and as it digs up more of its own supply. A backlash against coal is also growing in the West. Last week, investors managing nearly half the world's invested capital demanded ahead of a Group of 20 summits in Osaka that governments take urgent action on climate change. Delegates to Coaltrans in Bali, Indonesia, however, said that while coal's glory days are done, reports of its imminent demise have been greatly exaggerated. "Coal will continue to provide low-cost energy. We are looking at increasing demand in Southeast Asia, so we are still positive," said Hendri Tan, marketing director at PT Adaro Indonesia, a unit of PT Adaro Energy, Indonesia's second-biggest coal producer. Indonesia is the world's biggest exporter of thermal coal, used primarily for power generation, shipping out 429 million tonnes last year and accounting for 43% of the 1 billion-tonne-a-year seaborne market, according to Australian government data. Around 124 gigawatts (GW) of coal-fired power capacity is under development in Southeast and South Asia, both key markets for Indonesia, and that is expected to offset declining demand from China, said the chairman of Indonesia Coal Mining Association, Pandu Sjahrir. Indonesia itself is expected to add some 50 million tonnes a year of coal-fired power demand by 2023, he said, a rise of 55% that would make it one of Asia's biggest consumers. As China takes less, economies like India, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, Philippines are also expected to pick up the slack, delegates said. Between 2014 and 2018, China's coal demand fell by 2.4%, while India's swelled by 16.7%, according to BP's Statistical Review of World Energy report this year. Over the same period, Vietnam's coal use grew by 65% and Indonesia's by 36%, helping to offset falls in the United States, Japan and Germany as well. Beach parties end, belly dancers, stay home Indonesia shot to prominence as a coal producer last decade as it dug out and shipped the fuel to meet power demand from China, eventually outstripping then leader Australia. As China's manufacturing might grow, so too did its hunger for electricity, turning it into a net thermal coal importer around 2004. That was a bonanza for miners and helped establish Coaltrans in Bali as the industry's main event in Asia. During the boom years, companies would battle to outdo each other at Coaltrans with lavish beach parties. One Uzbekistan company flew in belly dancers to entertain potential customers drinking free-flow vodka and eating caviar, delegates said. "People were throwing money at everything," said SMG Consultants' Alistair MacDonald, who has attended Coaltrans since 2000. But times have changed, he said. "The bankers aren't here. A lot of the services like insurers aren't here any more," he said. "It's a lot more domestic (Indonesian) players, and they want to be perceived as energy companies, not as coal companies." Staring at prospects of tougher conditions ahead, Indonesia's large thermal coal miners are diversifying into other geographies and other industries, Sacha Winzenried, a partner at PriceWaterhouseCoopers, told Reuters. "They are looking into renewables, other infrastructure, supply chain support such as water, utilities, shipping and logistics," Winzenried said. Indonesia's Adaro Energy bought an Australian coal mine from Rio Tinto last year. And Indonesian state coal miner Bukit Asam is targeting commercial operation of four coal processing plants in South Sumatra that would extract gas from, as well as burn, coal. Financing dries up Delegates also noted the difficulty of getting financing for their businesses, working capital and further investments, and some were pessimistic on the coal industry's longevity. One mining engineer in his fifties, who had spent most of his career in coal at a major miner and also had an MBA, saw his career options as limited. "I've spent twenty years in coal. Where can I go next?" he said. "I would not recommend any young people join this industry." Still, renewables are not expected to make the same inroads in emerging Asian economies as in developed nations, because Asian governments are working to provide cheap baseload power from coal, and renewables can't compete on scale or price, said an industry analyst, declining to be named due to his listed company's policy. "Less coal will mean a less polluted world," he said. "But if you don't want (coal) to exist, then you have to come up with a realistic alternative."

Future tense: Fastest-growing market Asia rethinks coal's prospects

<p>Despite the heavy schedule at G20 summit which is currently underway in Japan's Osaka, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-indonesian-presdient-joko-widodo-brazilian-president-jair-bolsonaro-at-g20-summit-in-japans-osaka-231351">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison managed to click a selfie.</p>

<p>Scott Morrison later tweeted the picture with a Hindi caption, saying ''Kithana acha he Modi!'' (How nice Modi is).</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Kithana acha he Modi! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20OsakaSummit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20OsakaSummit</a> <a href="https://t.co/BC6DyuX4lf">pic.twitter.com/BC6DyuX4lf</a></p>
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1144754448587079680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Both the prime ministers are busy holding a string of bilateral and trilateral meetings on the sidelines of Summit.</p>

<p>This is the first meeting of the two leaders after the election in both countries.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australian-pm-tweets-a-selfie-with-pm-modi-praised-him-in-hindi-231375/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Soon after the PM Modi's re-election, Morrison called up Modi to congratulate him on winning the Lok Sabha elections and sought to boost bilateral ties.</p>

<p>PM Modi on Saturday held a bilateral meeting with President Joko Widodo, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.</p>


Despite the heavy schedule at G20 summit which is currently underway in Japan's Osaka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison managed to click a selfie.

Despite the heavy schedule at G20 summit which is currently underway in Japan's Osaka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison managed to click a selfie. Scott Morrison later tweeted the picture with a Hindi caption, saying ''Kithana acha he Modi!'' (How nice Modi is). Kithana acha he Modi! #G20OsakaSummit pic.twitter.com/BC6DyuX4lf — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) June 28, 2019 × Both the prime ministers are busy holding a string of bilateral and trilateral meetings on the sidelines of Summit. This is the first meeting of the two leaders after the election in both countries. Soon after the PM Modi's re-election, Morrison called up Modi to congratulate him on winning the Lok Sabha elections and sought to boost bilateral ties. PM Modi on Saturday held a bilateral meeting with President Joko Widodo, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison tweets selfie with PM Modi at G20 Summit in Japan's Osaka

<p>Leaders of the Group of 20 opened a high-stakes summit in Japan's Osaka Friday that is expected to be one of the most fractious in years.</p>

<p>Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe opened the meeting, which will be dominated by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-trump-tells-putin-dont-meddle-in-us-elections-231086">contentious discussions</a> on trade, geopolitical tensions, and climate change.</p>

<p>But the mood appeared friendly in the opening minutes, with smiles on the faces of the arriving leaders as they posed for the traditional "family photograph".</p>

<p>US President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping, whose countries are mired in a damaging trade war, exchanged a handshake before the photo.</p>

<p>And as the leaders headed into the first session, French President Emmanuel Macron leaned down to whisper something into Trump's ear, covering his mouth for privacy as he did so.</p>

<p>The first session of the meeting is focused on the digital economy, with concerns about privacy and security on the agenda.</p>

<p>"Digitalisation has rapidly changed various aspects of our society and economy," Abe said as he opened the session.</p>

<p>"I'm happy to see the momentum to globally tackle the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-our-countries-have-never-been-closer-trump-on-us-india-ties-231018">digital economy</a>."</p>

<p>But in a sign of the ongoing tensions likely to dominate talks, Trump appeared to make reference to US concerns about the security threat posed by Chinese telecoms firm Huawei.</p>

<p>As "we expand digital trade, we must also ensure the resilience and security of our 5G networks", he said.</p>

<p>Trump's administration has taken measures to ban Huawei, with China reportedly seeking an end to the restrictions as part of any resumption of talks on resolving the trade war.</p>

<p>The summit is being overshadowed by the trade war between the world's top two economies, with hopes that Xi and Trump can reach a truce when they hold talks on Saturday on the sidelines of the summit.&nbsp;</p>


Leaders of the Group of 20 opened a high-stakes summit in Japan's Osaka Friday that is expected to be one of the most fractious in years. Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe opened the meeting, which will be dominated by contentious discussions on trade, geopolitical tensions, and climate change.

Leaders of the Group of 20 opened a high-stakes summit in Japan's Osaka Friday that is expected to be one of the most fractious in years. Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe opened the meeting, which will be dominated by contentious discussions on trade, geopolitical tensions, and climate change. But the mood appeared friendly in the opening minutes, with smiles on the faces of the arriving leaders as they posed for the traditional "family photograph". US President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping, whose countries are mired in a damaging trade war, exchanged a handshake before the photo. And as the leaders headed into the first session, French President Emmanuel Macron leaned down to whisper something into Trump's ear, covering his mouth for privacy as he did so. The first session of the meeting is focused on the digital economy, with concerns about privacy and security on the agenda. "Digitalisation has rapidly changed various aspects of our society and economy," Abe said as he opened the session. "I'm happy to see the momentum to globally tackle the digital economy." But in a sign of the ongoing tensions likely to dominate talks, Trump appeared to make reference to US concerns about the security threat posed by Chinese telecoms firm Huawei. As "we expand digital trade, we must also ensure the resilience and security of our 5G networks", he said. Trump's administration has taken measures to ban Huawei, with China reportedly seeking an end to the restrictions as part of any resumption of talks on resolving the trade war. The summit is being overshadowed by the trade war between the world's top two economies, with hopes that Xi and Trump can reach a truce when they hold talks on Saturday on the sidelines of the summit.

G20 Summit officially opens in Japan's Osaka with trade tensions looming

<p>Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-our-countries-have-never-been-closer-trump-on-us-india-ties-231018">Narendra Modi held "productive"&nbsp;trilateral talks</a> with US President Donald Trump and Japanese premier Shinzo Abe in Osaka, Japan on Friday ahead of the formal opening of the G-20 Summit and extensively discussed issues of the Indo-Pacific region, connectivity and infrastructure development .</p>

<p>The discussion focused on how the three countries can together work together towards an open, stable and rule-based Indo-Pacific region.<br />
During the Japan-America-India trilateral meeting, Modi highlighted "the importance India attaches to" the grouping.</p>

<p>The main topic of discussion was Indo-Pacific, how the three countries can work together in terms of connectivity, infrastructure, ensuring peace and security, and working together to build upon this new concept, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said.</p>

<p>"Committed to a better future. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trade-in-focus-as-pm-modi-holds-bilateral-talks-with-us-president-trump-231014">Meeting of JAI (Japan-America-India)Trilateral takes place</a> in Osaka. PM @AbeShinzo welcomes the leaders. @POTUS congratulates Prime Ministers Modi and Abe for their electoral victories. PM Modi highlights the importance India attaches to JAI," the prime minister's office tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Committed to a better future.<br />
<br />
Meeting of JAI (Japan-America-India)Trilateral takes place in Osaka.<br />
<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/AbeShinzo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AbeShinzo</a> welcomes the leaders. <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> congratulates Prime Ministers Modi and Abe for their electoral victories.<br />
<br />
PM Modi highlights the importance India attaches to JAI. <a href="https://t.co/IBjkzFuTKY">pic.twitter.com/IBjkzFuTKY</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1144403564590010368?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Today's meeting of the JAI Trilateral was a productive one. We had extensive discussions on the Indo-Pacific region, improving connectivity and infrastructure development. Grateful to PM @AbeShinzo and President @realDonaldTrump for sharing their views as well," Modi tweeted later.</p>

<p>"2nd 'JAI' - Japan-America-India Trilateral Meeting between PM @narendramodi, Japanese PM @AbeShinzo &amp; POTUS @realDonaldTrump on margins of #G20 Summit. Discussion focused on how the 3 countries can together work together towards an open, stable &amp; rule-based Indo-Pacific region," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Twitter.</p>

<p>On Thursday, Modi held wide-ranging talks with Abe on the global economy, issues of fugitive economic offenders and disaster management.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi will also meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Putin and other leaders during the June 28-29 summit.</p>

<p>This is be Modi's sixth G-20 Summit.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi held "productive" trilateral talks with US President Donald Trump and Japanese premier Shinzo Abe in Osaka, Japan on Friday ahead of the formal opening of the G-20 Summit and extensively discussed issues of the Indo-Pacific region, connectivity and infrastructure development .

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held "productive" trilateral talks with US President Donald Trump and Japanese premier Shinzo Abe in Osaka, Japan on Friday ahead of the formal opening of the G-20 Summit and extensively discussed issues of the Indo-Pacific region, connectivity and infrastructure development . The discussion focused on how the three countries can together work together towards an open, stable and rule-based Indo-Pacific region. During the Japan-America-India trilateral meeting, Modi highlighted "the importance India attaches to" the grouping. The main topic of discussion was Indo-Pacific, how the three countries can work together in terms of connectivity, infrastructure, ensuring peace and security, and working together to build upon this new concept, Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said. "Committed to a better future. Meeting of JAI (Japan-America-India)Trilateral takes place in Osaka. PM @AbeShinzo welcomes the leaders. @POTUS congratulates Prime Ministers Modi and Abe for their electoral victories. PM Modi highlights the importance India attaches to JAI," the prime minister's office tweeted. Committed to a better future. Meeting of JAI (Japan-America-India)Trilateral takes place in Osaka. PM @AbeShinzo welcomes the leaders. @POTUS congratulates Prime Ministers Modi and Abe for their electoral victories. PM Modi highlights the importance India attaches to JAI. pic.twitter.com/IBjkzFuTKY — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 28, 2019 × "Today's meeting of the JAI Trilateral was a productive one. We had extensive discussions on the Indo-Pacific region, improving connectivity and infrastructure development. Grateful to PM @AbeShinzo and President @realDonaldTrump for sharing their views as well," Modi tweeted later. "2nd 'JAI' - Japan-America-India Trilateral Meeting between PM @narendramodi, Japanese PM @AbeShinzo & POTUS @realDonaldTrump on margins of #G20 Summit. Discussion focused on how the 3 countries can together work together towards an open, stable & rule-based Indo-Pacific region," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said on Twitter. On Thursday, Modi held wide-ranging talks with Abe on the global economy, issues of fugitive economic offenders and disaster management. Prime Minister Modi will also meet Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Putin and other leaders during the June 28-29 summit. This is be Modi's sixth G-20 Summit.

G20 Summit: PM Modi, Trump, Abe hold trilateral meeting; discuss Indo-Pacific, connectivity

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe ahead of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan. In his first bilateral meeting on the sidelines of G20 summit, Modi reportedly discussed infrastructure projects and bullet trains.</p>

<p>''Discussed broad range of topics of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-pm-modi-to-meet-trump-and-attend-two-trilateral-meetings-on-friday-230703">mutual interest</a>. PM said that he was looking forward to visit of PM Abe to India later this year for the Annual Summit,'' tweeted Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Expanding the strategic template of our relationship<br />
​<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> met Japanese PM <a href="https://twitter.com/AbeShinzo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AbeShinzo</a> ahead of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit</a>. Discussed broad range of topics of mutual interest. PM said that he was looking forward to visit of PM Abe to India later this year for the Annual Summit. <a href="https://t.co/q07u4i68yu">pic.twitter.com/q07u4i68yu</a></p>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1144114496593522688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Modi praised the Japan PM for organising the summit while the latter congratulated the Indian prime minister for an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-meet-japanese-counterpart-shinzo-abe-today-230722">''overwhelming'' victory </a>in the recent general election.</p>

<p>PM Modi will also be meeting Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, South Korea President Moon Jae-in, German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the first day of the two-day G20 summit, the sixth he is participating since he became prime minister in 2014.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A friendship characterised by warmth and the promise of a bright future.<br />
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Prime Ministers <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AbeShinzo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AbeShinzo</a> hold talks in Osaka, the first such meeting between these leaders since the start of Japan’s Reiwa era.<br />
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Many aspects of India-Japan relations were discussed. <a href="https://t.co/59CiuBHZWA">pic.twitter.com/59CiuBHZWA</a></p>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1144113765874429952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Friday, PM Modi will attend two trilateral -- Japan America &amp; India (JAI) and Russia India &amp; China trilateral (RIC). On the same day, he will also be present at the informal BRICS Meet.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe ahead of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan. In his first bilateral meeting on the sidelines of G20 summit, Modi reportedly discussed infrastructure projects and bullet trains.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday met his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe ahead of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan. In his first bilateral meeting on the sidelines of G20 summit, Modi reportedly discussed infrastructure projects and bullet trains. ''Discussed broad range of topics of mutual interest. PM said that he was looking forward to visit of PM Abe to India later this year for the Annual Summit,'' tweeted Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson. Expanding the strategic template of our relationship PM @narendramodi met Japanese PM @AbeShinzo ahead of the #G20Summit. Discussed broad range of topics of mutual interest. PM said that he was looking forward to visit of PM Abe to India later this year for the Annual Summit. pic.twitter.com/q07u4i68yu — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) June 27, 2019 × Modi praised the Japan PM for organising the summit while the latter congratulated the Indian prime minister for an ''overwhelming'' victory in the recent general election. PM Modi will also be meeting Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, Vietnam Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, South Korea President Moon Jae-in, German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the first day of the two-day G20 summit, the sixth he is participating since he became prime minister in 2014. A friendship characterised by warmth and the promise of a bright future. Prime Ministers @narendramodi and @AbeShinzo hold talks in Osaka, the first such meeting between these leaders since the start of Japan’s Reiwa era. Many aspects of India-Japan relations were discussed. pic.twitter.com/59CiuBHZWA — PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 27, 2019 × On Friday, PM Modi will attend two trilateral -- Japan America & India (JAI) and Russia India & China trilateral (RIC). On the same day, he will also be present at the informal BRICS Meet.

PM Modi meets Japan's Abe in his first bilateral summit on G20 sidelines  

G20 Summit: Trump-Xi meet goes 'very well'

<p>Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was sidelined during the official "family photo" of world leaders and other dignitaries at the Group of 20 Summit in Buenos Aires on Friday, standing at the far edge of the group portrait and ignored.</p>

<p>Prince Mohammed's presence at the international summit has been contentious following the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October.</p>

<p>The crown prince, Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, quickly exited the stage without shaking hands or talking with other leaders.</p>

<p>At centre stage was Argentine President Mauricio Macri, hosting this year's summit of G20 industrialized nations.</p>

<p>Macri has said accusations that Prince Mohammed was involved in Khashoggi's death could be discussed by world leaders during the two-day summit. Saudi Arabia has said the prince had no prior knowledge of the murder.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prince Mohammed later exchanged a high-five and a handshake and laughed heartily as they took seats next to each other in the main meeting room.</p>


Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was sidelined during the official "family photo" of world leaders and other dignitaries at the Group of 20 Summit in Buenos Aires on Friday, standing at the far edge of the group portrait and ignored.

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was sidelined during the official "family photo" of world leaders and other dignitaries at the Group of 20 Summit in Buenos Aires on Friday, standing at the far edge of the group portrait and ignored. Prince Mohammed's presence at the international summit has been contentious following the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October. The crown prince, Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler, quickly exited the stage without shaking hands or talking with other leaders. At centre stage was Argentine President Mauricio Macri, hosting this year's summit of G20 industrialized nations. Macri has said accusations that Prince Mohammed was involved in Khashoggi's death could be discussed by world leaders during the two-day summit. Saudi Arabia has said the prince had no prior knowledge of the murder. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prince Mohammed later exchanged a high-five and a handshake and laughed heartily as they took seats next to each other in the main meeting room.

Saudi Crown Prince sidelined in G20 family photo

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/12-people-including-police-officer-killed-gunman-also-dead-in-california-bar-shooting-176217">Video: 12 people including police officer killed, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/12-people-including-police-officer-killed-gunman-also-dead-in-california-bar-shooting-176217">gunman</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/12-people-including-police-officer-killed-gunman-also-dead-in-california-bar-shooting-176217"> also dead in California bar shooting</a></p>

<p>A gunman killed 12 people, including a sheriff’s deputy, when he walked into a Southern California bar and grill and started shooting on Wednesday night, police said.</p>

<p>The gunman was also killed, Ventura County Sheriff Geoff Dean told a news conference on Thursday, though it was not immediately clear by whom.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-help-asia-bibi-in-blasphemy-case-leave-her-country-italy-176228">Pakistan blasphemy case: Italy says will help Asia Bibi leave her country</a></p>

<p>Italy said on Tuesday it will help a Pakistani Christian woman leave her country because her life is in danger following charges of blasphemy against Islam that put her on death row for eight years.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-civilians-one-cisf-jawan-killed-in-ied-blast-in-chhattisgarh-176193">Four civilians, one CISF jawan killed in IED blast in Chhattisgarh</a></p>

<p>Four civilians and a CISF jawan were killed when suspected Naxals detonated a bus with an improvised explosive device (IED) in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district on Thursday, four days ahead of the first phase of elections in the state, police said.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/xi-trumps-g20-meeting-will-be-of-great-significance-china-176194">Xi, Trump's G20 meeting will be of 'great significance': China</a></p>

<p>A meeting between the Chinese and US presidents at the G20 summit will be of "great significance" in resolving bilateral problems, a senior Chinese diplomat said on Thursday, as the two countries try tentatively to get ties back on track.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-trying-to-capture-rbi-ahead-of-lok-sabha-polls-p-chidambaram-176189">Government trying to capture RBI ahead of Lok Sabha polls: P Chidambaram</a></p>

<p>Former Finance Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday attacked PM Modi's government stating that the regime is trying "to 'capture' RBI ahead of Lok Sabha poll, this will be catastrophic."</p>


Video: 12 people including police officer killed, gunman also dead in California bar shooting A gunman killed 12 people, including a sheriff’s deputy, when he walked into a Southern California bar and grill and started shooting on Wednesday night, police said.

Video: 12 people including police officer killed, gunman also dead in California bar shooting A gunman killed 12 people, including a sheriff’s deputy, when he walked into a Southern California bar and grill and started shooting on Wednesday night, police said. The gunman was also killed, Ventura County Sheriff Geoff Dean told a news conference on Thursday, though it was not immediately clear by whom. Pakistan blasphemy case: Italy says will help Asia Bibi leave her country Italy said on Tuesday it will help a Pakistani Christian woman leave her country because her life is in danger following charges of blasphemy against Islam that put her on death row for eight years. Four civilians, one CISF jawan killed in IED blast in Chhattisgarh Four civilians and a CISF jawan were killed when suspected Naxals detonated a bus with an improvised explosive device (IED) in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district on Thursday, four days ahead of the first phase of elections in the state, police said. Xi, Trump's G20 meeting will be of 'great significance': China A meeting between the Chinese and US presidents at the G20 summit will be of "great significance" in resolving bilateral problems, a senior Chinese diplomat said on Thursday, as the two countries try tentatively to get ties back on track. Government trying to capture RBI ahead of Lok Sabha polls: P Chidambaram Former Finance Minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram on Thursday attacked PM Modi's government stating that the regime is trying "to 'capture' RBI ahead of Lok Sabha poll, this will be catastrophic."

News brief: Big stories of the day

<p>A meeting between the Chinese and US presidents at the G20 summit will be of "great significance" in resolving bilateral problems, a senior Chinese diplomat said on Thursday, as the two countries try tentatively to get ties back on track.</p>

<p>China and the United States have put tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars of each other's goods and US President Donald Trump has threatened to set tariffs on the remainder of China's $500 billion-plus exports to the United States if their blistering trade dispute cannot be resolved.</p>

<p>Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping plan to meet on the sidelines of a G20 summit, which is being held in Argentina at the end of November and early December, for high-stakes talks.</p>

<p>Speaking in Beijing, China's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi said Xi and Trump reached an important consensus on the healthy and stable development of bilateral ties in their telephone call last week and were slated to meet in Buenos Aires.</p>

<p>"That will be of great significance for both sides to manage differences effectively and resolve issues in a practical way," Wang told reporters.</p>

<p>Wang said China stands ready to work with the United States to remove disruptions, build trust and prepare fully for the meeting.</p>

<p>"We believe that meeting will help chart the course for China-US relations," he said, following talks with Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne.</p>

<p>Wang added that the more complex the situation it is, the more important it is for both sides to remain "level-headed".</p>

<p>Relations between the two countries have warmed since the Xi-Trump telephone call, laying the ground for their G20 meeting.</p>

<p>In a further sign of improving ties, Chinese Politburo member Yang Jiechi and Defence Minister Wei Fenghe are set to hold a security and diplomatic dialogue with US officials in Washington on Friday.</p>

<p>Meeting US national security adviser John Bolton in Washington ahead of those talks, Yang said on Wednesday that the two sides should "properly manage differences and carefully prepare to ensure positive results in the Argentina meeting", China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p>"China is committed to working with the US to achieve a no-confrontational, conflict-free, mutually respectful co-operation in which both sides win," added Yang, who heads the ruling Communist Party's foreign affairs commission and outranks Wang.</p>

<p>In a separate meeting on Thursday in Beijing with former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Wang said the two countries absolutely could resolve their trade dispute.</p>

<p>"As for the present China-US economic and trade dispute, we believe it ought to be and can be appropriately resolved via equal dialogue," Wang said, according to China's Foreign Ministry.</p>

<p>However, speaking in Singapore at a forum on Wednesday, former US Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said there was a risk of an economic "Iron Curtain" falling between China and the United States unless Beijing carries out reforms and that some people in the United States would like to "divorce" from China.</p>

<p>Beijing can help avoid this happening by ending practices like forced technology transfers, and providing better protection for intellectual property, and by also genuinely allowing market forces to drive key decisions.</p>

<p>"If China doesn't move quickly, I suspect the calls for divorce will intensify," Paulson said.</p>


A meeting between the Chinese and US presidents at the G20 summit will be of "great significance" in resolving bilateral problems, a senior Chinese diplomat said on Thursday, as the two countries try tentatively to get ties back on track.

A meeting between the Chinese and US presidents at the G20 summit will be of "great significance" in resolving bilateral problems, a senior Chinese diplomat said on Thursday, as the two countries try tentatively to get ties back on track. China and the United States have put tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars of each other's goods and US President Donald Trump has threatened to set tariffs on the remainder of China's $500 billion-plus exports to the United States if their blistering trade dispute cannot be resolved. Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping plan to meet on the sidelines of a G20 summit, which is being held in Argentina at the end of November and early December, for high-stakes talks. Speaking in Beijing, China's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi said Xi and Trump reached an important consensus on the healthy and stable development of bilateral ties in their telephone call last week and were slated to meet in Buenos Aires. "That will be of great significance for both sides to manage differences effectively and resolve issues in a practical way," Wang told reporters. Wang said China stands ready to work with the United States to remove disruptions, build trust and prepare fully for the meeting. "We believe that meeting will help chart the course for China-US relations," he said, following talks with Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne. Wang added that the more complex the situation it is, the more important it is for both sides to remain "level-headed". Relations between the two countries have warmed since the Xi-Trump telephone call, laying the ground for their G20 meeting. In a further sign of improving ties, Chinese Politburo member Yang Jiechi and Defence Minister Wei Fenghe are set to hold a security and diplomatic dialogue with US officials in Washington on Friday. Meeting US national security adviser John Bolton in Washington ahead of those talks, Yang said on Wednesday that the two sides should "properly manage differences and carefully prepare to ensure positive results in the Argentina meeting", China's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. "China is committed to working with the US to achieve a no-confrontational, conflict-free, mutually respectful co-operation in which both sides win," added Yang, who heads the ruling Communist Party's foreign affairs commission and outranks Wang. In a separate meeting on Thursday in Beijing with former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, Wang said the two countries absolutely could resolve their trade dispute. "As for the present China-US economic and trade dispute, we believe it ought to be and can be appropriately resolved via equal dialogue," Wang said, according to China's Foreign Ministry. However, speaking in Singapore at a forum on Wednesday, former US Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson said there was a risk of an economic "Iron Curtain" falling between China and the United States unless Beijing carries out reforms and that some people in the United States would like to "divorce" from China. Beijing can help avoid this happening by ending practices like forced technology transfers, and providing better protection for intellectual property, and by also genuinely allowing market forces to drive key decisions. "If China doesn't move quickly, I suspect the calls for divorce will intensify," Paulson said.

Xi, Trump's G20 meeting will be of 'great significance': China

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