Just days ahead of US President Joe Biden's India trip for the G20 Summit, first lady Jill Biden has tested positive for Covid-19. After this, Joe Biden has now tested negative for the Coronavirus for a second time in a span 24 hours.

US: Bident tests negative for Covid, to travel to India for G20 Summit

US President Joe Biden tests negative for Covid-19 after Jill Biden tested positive for Coronavirus

The special thalis at state's bhawan includes dishes from each state. Each dish is distinct and delicious. They attempted to serve all of India on a single dish and were successful. The rooms are really pleasant and roomy enough to host any party. fantastic shakes and mocktails. There are various cuisines in each state that you should at least once sample.

G20 Summit 2023: Exploring Indian cuisine of every state of India in New Delhi

<p>The 18th summit of the Group of Twenty (G20) opens in New Delhi on 9th September and concludes the next day. The iconic photograph showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi receiving the presidential gavel from President Joko Widodo last November in Bali is about to be replaced by a new photo. It will show Mr Modi saying ‘Order, Order’ as he strikes the gavel at the presidential table to begin the summit by delivering his opening remarks. This ultimate G20 moment of India will be watched by millions around the world. It will be a high point for the nation’s ‘model of democracy with development’, pro-active international diplomacy, and global leadership.</p>

<h2><strong>G20, an apex institution</strong></h2>

<p>India is no stranger to hosting large international conferences. Some of the biggest summits in the past were the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in March 1983, the Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) Summit in November 1983, and the Third India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) in March 2015. But there is something special and unique about G20 and its Delhi Summit.</p>

<p>One, G20 is composed of the world’s top developed nations and the most important emerging economies. All permanent members of the UN Security Council are there. So are all G7 members and the five members of BRICS. The MIKTA group, with its five members, is in G20, and there are others: Saudi Arabia, Argentina, and the European Union (EU). Besides, leading multilateral institutions such as the UN, World Bank, IMF, and others will attend the summit, as they did in the past.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two, the list of nine guests of India, as the G20 president, is imbued with significance of its own: Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain, and the UAE.</p>

<p>Three, the political and economic weight of G20 countries is noteworthy. By all accounts, G20 now represents about 65% of the world’s population, 85% of the global GDP, and 75% of international trade. If the Indian proposal to admit the African Union (AU) as a member of G20 is accepted at the summit, these figures will register further increase.</p>

<p>Four, India’s presidency is part of a four-year cycle during which the presidency stays with developing countries only. Indonesia held it earlier. After India, it will move to Brazil and then to South Africa. Thus, the countries of the Global South have a rare opportunity to drive the G20 agenda in the desired direction, but in a pragmatic manner so that the Global North marches in tandem.</p>

<h2><strong>Presidency so far</strong></h2>

<p>India’s presidency began on 1 December 2022 and will end on 30 November 2023, that is, a few weeks after the Delhi Summit. The preceding nine months and eight days saw a series of intense preparations for the ultimate gathering of world leaders. The first of them – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria – arrived in Delhi on September 5.</p>

<p>The G20, as an informal multilateral institution, operates through its Finance Track (with its 8 work streams), the Sherpa Track (with its 13 working groups and two initiatives), and the autonomous meetings of the Foreign Ministers. The two tracks held meetings of their working groups composed of senior officials as well as Ministerial meetings. Besides, at the non-official level, 11 Engagement Groups contributed with a rich crop of inputs after holding their own meetings throughout the year, culminating in their own summits. For example, the communiques issued by Business 20 (B20) and Think 20 (T20) contain many substantial ideas and recommendations that the G20 governments may have accorded ample consideration.</p>

<p>In all these preparatory meetings, all G20 members were represented suitably. However, at the forthcoming summit, three leaders, through their absence, have drawn much attention to themselves. They are: Andrés Manuel López Obrador, President of Mexico, who has not attended a single G20 summit probably on ideological grounds; Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, who telephoned PM Modi to explain his preoccupation with the war as the reason of his absence; and Xi Jinping, President of China, who let it be known through a spokesman of the foreign ministry that China would be represented by Premier Li Qiang. Neither the Chinese President nor the spokesman offered any explanation for the former’s absence, leaving the world’s Sinologists and others to offer multiple theories.</p>

<p>But as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pointed out, all twenty members of G20 will be represented at the Delhi Summit. He also observed that “the countries are represented by whoever they have chosen to represent them”, adding, “The levels of representation do not become the final determinant of the position of a country.”</p>

<h2><strong>Key issues for summit</strong></h2>

<p>G20, founded in 1999 at the level of finance ministers and central bank governors, was elevated to the level of the Heads of State/ Government to address the global economic and financial crisis of 2007. Two years later, in 2009, it was officially depicted as “the premier forum for international economic cooperation.” Thus, today, while some argue that G20 can discuss and decide only economic issues, others maintain that as the powerful grouping of the world’s top leaders, G20 has no choice but to discuss political and geopolitical issues too, which have a bearing on the planet’s economies.</p>

<p>This argument is at the heart of the biggest challenge before the Delhi Summit: how should the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its economic consequences faced, especially by the countries of the Global South, be addressed and then reflected in the proposed Delhi Declaration? With India’s valuable help at the Bali Summit last year, negotiators agreed on two paragraphs, now known as ‘the Bali paras.’ In the run up to this year’s summit, Russia and China continue to insist on the exclusion of ‘the Bali paras,’ whereas the remaining 18 members including India, emphasise the need for their retention.</p>

<p>At the time of writing, G20 Sherpas and other officials were engaged in non-stop negotiations to break this vexed diplomatic impasse. There are other issues too on which differences persist among the US, EU, China, India, and others, but the word is that most of them can be managed, provided the Ukraine question gets resolved through consensus. On that vital matter depends whether the summit will issue a Joint Declaration or a mere ‘Chair’s Summary and Outcome Document.’</p>

<p>On most other substantive issues that form the core of G20 agenda, consensus has already been reached through the preceding official level and ministerial level deliberations. These include a wide array of subjects such as the measures essential to ensure the steady growth of a resilient and inclusive global economy; steps and finance needed for energy transition and for the accelerated implementation of SDGs 2030; promotion and sharing of Digital Public Infrastructure services with all interested nations; initiatives for environmental protection, leveraging of the Blue Economy and restoration and enriching of biodiversity; better preparedness for the next pandemic; and practical progress in women-led development and reform of multilateral development banks and other institutions. Agreement is also near on the admission of the AU as a member of G20.</p>

<h2><strong>Stakes and challenges&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The sad but overarching reality about the world today is that it faces multiple conflicts, sharpening strategic contestation, pressing global challenges and polarisation – even within the G20. Can the grouping hope to address all this by perpetuating differences or by narrowing them through mutual accommodation? The goal of Indian diplomacy today is to emphasise the large areas of agreement and narrow the areas of disagreement within the G20 family. The summit’s outcome, thus, depends on the members of G20 itself.</p>

<p>India has put a premium on its role as “the voice of the Global South”. But it also serves as the bridge between the Global South and the Global North, and between the West and the East. Can it succeed in all these roles at a time when India-China relations have touched a new low? That is the question under discussion in the capital’s diplomatic corridors.</p>

<p>In this complex situation, PM Modi has aptly observed, “We recognise that we all have our positions and perspectives on various global issues. At the same time, we have repeatedly emphasised that a divided world will find it difficult to fight common challenges.” Should this key message from the G20 President inspire all its members, the success of the Delhi Summit will stand assured.</p>

<p><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)</strong></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us<strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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The 18th summit of the Group of Twenty (G20) opens in New Delhi on 9th September and concludes the next day. The iconic photograph showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi receiving the presidential gavel from President Joko Widodo last November in Bali is about to be replaced by a new photo.

The 18th summit of the Group of Twenty (G20) opens in New Delhi on 9th September and concludes the next day. The iconic photograph showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi receiving the presidential gavel from President Joko Widodo last November in Bali is about to be replaced by a new photo. It will show Mr Modi saying ‘Order, Order’ as he strikes the gavel at the presidential table to begin the summit by delivering his opening remarks. This ultimate G20 moment of India will be watched by millions around the world. It will be a high point for the nation’s ‘model of democracy with development’, pro-active international diplomacy, and global leadership. G20, an apex institution India is no stranger to hosting large international conferences. Some of the biggest summits in the past were the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in March 1983, the Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) Summit in November 1983, and the Third India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) in March 2015. But there is something special and unique about G20 and its Delhi Summit. One, G20 is composed of the world’s top developed nations and the most important emerging economies. All permanent members of the UN Security Council are there. So are all G7 members and the five members of BRICS. The MIKTA group, with its five members, is in G20, and there are others: Saudi Arabia, Argentina, and the European Union (EU). Besides, leading multilateral institutions such as the UN, World Bank, IMF, and others will attend the summit, as they did in the past. Two, the list of nine guests of India, as the G20 president, is imbued with significance of its own: Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain, and the UAE. Three, the political and economic weight of G20 countries is noteworthy. By all accounts, G20 now represents about 65% of the world’s population, 85% of the global GDP, and 75% of international trade. If the Indian proposal to admit the African Union (AU) as a member of G20 is accepted at the summit, these figures will register further increase. Four, India’s presidency is part of a four-year cycle during which the presidency stays with developing countries only. Indonesia held it earlier. After India, it will move to Brazil and then to South Africa. Thus, the countries of the Global South have a rare opportunity to drive the G20 agenda in the desired direction, but in a pragmatic manner so that the Global North marches in tandem. Presidency so far India’s presidency began on 1 December 2022 and will end on 30 November 2023, that is, a few weeks after the Delhi Summit. The preceding nine months and eight days saw a series of intense preparations for the ultimate gathering of world leaders. The first of them – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria – arrived in Delhi on September 5. The G20, as an informal multilateral institution, operates through its Finance Track (with its 8 work streams), the Sherpa Track (with its 13 working groups and two initiatives), and the autonomous meetings of the Foreign Ministers. The two tracks held meetings of their working groups composed of senior officials as well as Ministerial meetings. Besides, at the non-official level, 11 Engagement Groups contributed with a rich crop of inputs after holding their own meetings throughout the year, culminating in their own summits. For example, the communiques issued by Business 20 (B20) and Think 20 (T20) contain many substantial ideas and recommendations that the G20 governments may have accorded ample consideration. In all these preparatory meetings, all G20 members were represented suitably. However, at the forthcoming summit, three leaders, through their absence, have drawn much attention to themselves. They are: Andrés Manuel López Obrador, President of Mexico, who has not attended a single G20 summit probably on ideological grounds; Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, who telephoned PM Modi to explain his preoccupation with the war as the reason of his absence; and Xi Jinping, President of China, who let it be known through a spokesman of the foreign ministry that China would be represented by Premier Li Qiang. Neither the Chinese President nor the spokesman offered any explanation for the former’s absence, leaving the world’s Sinologists and others to offer multiple theories. But as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar pointed out, all twenty members of G20 will be represented at the Delhi Summit. He also observed that “the countries are represented by whoever they have chosen to represent them”, adding, “The levels of representation do not become the final determinant of the position of a country.” Key issues for summit G20, founded in 1999 at the level of finance ministers and central bank governors, was elevated to the level of the Heads of State/ Government to address the global economic and financial crisis of 2007. Two years later, in 2009, it was officially depicted as “the premier forum for international economic cooperation.” Thus, today, while some argue that G20 can discuss and decide only economic issues, others maintain that as the powerful grouping of the world’s top leaders, G20 has no choice but to discuss political and geopolitical issues too, which have a bearing on the planet’s economies. This argument is at the heart of the biggest challenge before the Delhi Summit: how should the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its economic consequences faced, especially by the countries of the Global South, be addressed and then reflected in the proposed Delhi Declaration? With India’s valuable help at the Bali Summit last year, negotiators agreed on two paragraphs, now known as ‘the Bali paras.’ In the run up to this year’s summit, Russia and China continue to insist on the exclusion of ‘the Bali paras,’ whereas the remaining 18 members including India, emphasise the need for their retention. At the time of writing, G20 Sherpas and other officials were engaged in non-stop negotiations to break this vexed diplomatic impasse. There are other issues too on which differences persist among the US, EU, China, India, and others, but the word is that most of them can be managed, provided the Ukraine question gets resolved through consensus. On that vital matter depends whether the summit will issue a Joint Declaration or a mere ‘Chair’s Summary and Outcome Document.’ On most other substantive issues that form the core of G20 agenda, consensus has already been reached through the preceding official level and ministerial level deliberations. These include a wide array of subjects such as the measures essential to ensure the steady growth of a resilient and inclusive global economy; steps and finance needed for energy transition and for the accelerated implementation of SDGs 2030; promotion and sharing of Digital Public Infrastructure services with all interested nations; initiatives for environmental protection, leveraging of the Blue Economy and restoration and enriching of biodiversity; better preparedness for the next pandemic; and practical progress in women-led development and reform of multilateral development banks and other institutions. Agreement is also near on the admission of the AU as a member of G20. Stakes and challenges The sad but overarching reality about the world today is that it faces multiple conflicts, sharpening strategic contestation, pressing global challenges and polarisation – even within the G20. Can the grouping hope to address all this by perpetuating differences or by narrowing them through mutual accommodation? The goal of Indian diplomacy today is to emphasise the large areas of agreement and narrow the areas of disagreement within the G20 family. The summit’s outcome, thus, depends on the members of G20 itself. India has put a premium on its role as “the voice of the Global South”. But it also serves as the bridge between the Global South and the Global North, and between the West and the East. Can it succeed in all these roles at a time when India-China relations have touched a new low? That is the question under discussion in the capital’s diplomatic corridors. In this complex situation, PM Modi has aptly observed, “We recognise that we all have our positions and perspectives on various global issues. At the same time, we have repeatedly emphasised that a divided world will find it difficult to fight common challenges.” Should this key message from the G20 President inspire all its members, the success of the Delhi Summit will stand assured. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

G20 Summit, New Delhi: Before the curtain rises

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping’s absence at the G20 Summit in India has certainly raised eyebrows among political leaders. Beijing has so far not provided any explanation and instead announced that Chinese Premier Li Qiang, considered to be one of the "weakest premiers”, will be gracing the event.</p>

<p>During a press interaction in Washington on Tuesday (Sept 5), US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was asked about Xi’s absence and the possible linkages to the present India-China tensions.</p>

<p>“As far as the question of tensions between India and China affecting the (G20) summit, really that's up to China. If China wants to come in and play the role of spoiler, of course, that option is available to them,” he said.</p>

<p>“What I think the Chair, India, will encourage them to do what we, the United States and every other member, virtually every other member of the G20 will do, is encourage them to come in, in a constructive way on climate, on multilateral development, bank reform, on debt relief, on technology and set aside the geopolitical questions and really focus on problem-solving and delivering for the developing countries,” Sullivan said.</p>

<h2><strong>Li Qang to arrive with delegation&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Monday, the Chinese foreign ministry announced that a delegation led by Premier Li Qiang will land in New Delhi while expressing Beijing's readiness to work with all parties to make the high-profile meeting a success.</p>

<p>At the invitation of the Government of India, Premier of the State Council Li will attend the 18th G20 Summit to be held in New Delhi, India on September 9 and 10, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said in a brief statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-tests-covid-negative-all-set-to-visit-india-for-g20-632768">Biden tests Covid negative, all set to visit India on Sept 7 for G20 Summit</a></p>

<p>At the G-20 Summit, Sullivan said President Joe Biden will be clear that the United States expects real progress.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deforestation-declines-in-brazils-amazon-as-govt-approves-more-indigenous-reserves-632735">Deforestation declines in Brazil's Amazon as govt approves more Indigenous reserves</a></p>

<p>“He will be clear that we need all G20 members to be constructive and at the table, with no exceptions. We'll also be making progress on other key priorities, from climate to health to digital technology, including commitments, with respect to a more inclusive digital transformation and a responsible path and approach to AI development,” he said.</p>

<p>Sullivan said that the US was looking forward to welcoming the African Union (AU) as the newest permanent member of the bloc. The remarks come in the wake of a proposal to add AU to the grouping.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Chinese President Xi Jinping’s absence at the G20 Summit in India has certainly raised eyebrows among political leaders. Beijing has so far not provided any explanation and instead announced that Chinese Premier Li Qiang, considered to be one of the "weakest premiers”, will be gracing the event.

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s absence at the G20 Summit in India has certainly raised eyebrows among political leaders. Beijing has so far not provided any explanation and instead announced that Chinese Premier Li Qiang, considered to be one of the "weakest premiers”, will be gracing the event. During a press interaction in Washington on Tuesday (Sept 5), US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was asked about Xi’s absence and the possible linkages to the present India-China tensions. “As far as the question of tensions between India and China affecting the (G20) summit, really that's up to China. If China wants to come in and play the role of spoiler, of course, that option is available to them,” he said. “What I think the Chair, India, will encourage them to do what we, the United States and every other member, virtually every other member of the G20 will do, is encourage them to come in, in a constructive way on climate, on multilateral development, bank reform, on debt relief, on technology and set aside the geopolitical questions and really focus on problem-solving and delivering for the developing countries,” Sullivan said. Li Qang to arrive with delegation On Monday, the Chinese foreign ministry announced that a delegation led by Premier Li Qiang will land in New Delhi while expressing Beijing's readiness to work with all parties to make the high-profile meeting a success. At the invitation of the Government of India, Premier of the State Council Li will attend the 18th G20 Summit to be held in New Delhi, India on September 9 and 10, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said in a brief statement. Also read | Biden tests Covid negative, all set to visit India on Sept 7 for G20 Summit At the G-20 Summit, Sullivan said President Joe Biden will be clear that the United States expects real progress. Also read | Deforestation declines in Brazil's Amazon as govt approves more Indigenous reserves “He will be clear that we need all G20 members to be constructive and at the table, with no exceptions. We'll also be making progress on other key priorities, from climate to health to digital technology, including commitments, with respect to a more inclusive digital transformation and a responsible path and approach to AI development,” he said. Sullivan said that the US was looking forward to welcoming the African Union (AU) as the newest permanent member of the bloc. The remarks come in the wake of a proposal to add AU to the grouping. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘If China wants to play spoiler…’: US NSA Sullivan ahead of G20 Summit

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has landed in India becoming the first foreign head of state to arrive for the G20 summit. But his position as the state head is in jeopardy back home. Watch the video to know more.

Nigeria court to rule on President Tinubu's poll victory, Opposition calls to nullify Feb election

India's ruling party, BJP, has hinted at renaming India to just 'Bharat'. This has stirred debate in the political circles as the Indian Constitution mentions both the names of the republic. So, if a name change is on the cards, what would it entail? Watch this episode of Gravitas as we trace the history of these two words and reveal the sentiments expressed by our viewers in our recent poll.

Gravitas: Bharat or India: President's G20 Dinner Invite Stirs Debate | Name Change On The Cards?

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidq9orHD5rys8C" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Ahead of the mega G20 summit in Delhi, Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, has pointed to how India is prepared to host several leaders and key focus areas including special invitees from the Gulf and Africa. In a special gesture, India has extended invitations to two Gulf countries, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman, as well as several African nations, to participate in the upcoming G20 summit scheduled to take place in Delhi on September 9th and 10th.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, expressed India's enthusiasm for welcoming special invitees from the Gulf region. "This summit sees three participants from the Gulf region, other than Saudi Arabia being a permanent member of the G20, the UAE and Oman are part of this, as special invitees," stated Minister Muraleedharan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's outreach extends beyond the Gulf, as the nation is set to host the largest representation from Africa in the history of G20 summits. Countries including Nigeria, Egypt, Mauritius, and Comoros, represented by the African Union (AU) Chair, will participate. Minister Muraleedharan underscored India's commitment to engaging with Africa based on the continent's needs and requirements.</p>

<p>"India's view about Africa has been put forward by the Prime Minister in the speech that he made in the Ugandan Parliament in Kampala, where he said that India's engagement with Africa will be on the basis of the requirement and the needs of Africa," he explained. Full interview:</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;How momentous is this occasion for India as it hosts the big summit?</p>

<p><strong>V Muraleedharan: </strong>India being the largest democracy and the mother of democracy, as Prime Minister always mentions, for us, definitely for every citizen of the country, it's a great occasion to host the leaders of the most, I can say, economically prosperous, the most powerful 20 heads of states, heads of governments and is the forum where 75% of the whole world's economies old talks, such a forum to have its meeting in India. It's a great occasion. And at the same time, I would also say that this is an opportunity for India to put forward the issues that India has been taking up at various international fora, especially the developing countries, the issues that concern the global south, India's achievements in various fields like the digital public infrastructure, the issues of climate change, all these issues, this is an opportunity. So, both at the substantive level as well as a host country, this gives a major opportunity for India to host the G20, so the whole country is looking forward to it and being part of MEA, personally also and as MEA is looking forward to the summit, on 9th and 10th.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION:&nbsp;</strong>So how does India plan to put its imprints on the global governance post this G 20 summit because India's keen to shape the global order as well?</p>

<p><strong>V Muraleedharan:</strong> It's a multipolar world, The views that India has been putting forward, especially of inclusive growth, especially of sustainable development, issues where living in harmony with nature. So all these aspects are being recognized by the whole world, more and more. So our solutions for many of the problems of the world, we feel that this will be an opportunity when India can put forward and there can be a consensus on those issues, which will be accepted by the most powerful of the whole world. And then that will contribute to the future of the world. So we feel that during this G20, India we'll be able to put forward those and bring about a consensus on those issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;So you have been involved deeply in the Gulf region, and you have been visiting many of the Gulf countries, India has invited many Gulf countries including UAE as well to attend the G 20. Summit. So if you can talk about the rationale of India focusing on many of these Gulf countries where it's UAE or Oman, and of course Saudi Arabia is a permanent member.</p>

<p><strong>V Muraleedharan:</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course, this summit sees three participants from the Gulf region, other than Saudi Arabia being a permanent member of the G20, the UAE and Oman are part of this, as special invitees. For India, UAE our relationship is of multiple dimensions. One is the Indian diaspora, the largest number of Indian diaspora in a particular region, I would say that the Middle East is that region. So having representation from that region that goes along with. Second is the energy security part. And the third is that India and UAE have been friends for a long time. And together, we feel we can take forward the direction in which we would like to see how the world would shape in the coming days. So in that, we considered the Middle East countries who we have invited, they will become partners with India and as friends of India, we both can take forward this viewpoint with the direction in which we would like to go ahead.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;Another focus has been Africa as well. We are keen to make sure that the African Union becomes a permanent invitee, during this year's G 20 summit, how do you see this focus area by the Government of India?</p>

<p><strong>V Muraleedharan:&nbsp;</strong>This G20 will have representation from Africa in the largest number. Nigeria, Egypt, Mauritius and Comoros being the AU chair. India's view about Africa has been put forward by the Prime Minister in the speech that he made in the Ugandan Parliament in Kampala, where he said that India's engagement with Africa will be on the basis of the requirements and the needs of Africa. The Prime Minister the other day, very clearly mentioned in an interview, that when we are planning to take forward the agenda for the whole world where the developing countries matter much, Africa has a very prominent role. And in the new, global scenario that is evolving, the days when the UN were formed in the days when the impression about Africa was something different. Now the situation has changed. So if the developing countries, developing nations, ' concerns are to be taken into consideration, then the 54 countries of Africa matter much. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had initiated this in 2015 when after he took over in 2014, we had a meeting of all the governments of Africa, all the countries of Africa 54 countries, and their heads of states or heads of government attended the African conference that we held. So the issues of Africa are already being discussed in G20, but this is the first time they are participating in G20. The Prime Minister has written to all the heads of state who are participants of the G20 to make the African Union, Chair of the African Union a permanent member of the G20. So it again goes in sync with what India has been proposing. This is a multipolar world, and the concerns of the global south have to be reflected in any international fora, any fora that discuss about economy, that discuss about climate change, that discuss about food security, these issues wherever it is discussed, without Africa getting due represented, getting representation that discussion cannot be completed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION:&nbsp;</strong>How confident you are that the African Union will become a permanent invitee, because we have seen countries coming out in full support, US, France, are you confident that this will be that pivotal moment that the African Union will become a member?</p>

<p><strong>V Muraleedharan:</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;See, I wouldn't like to give an answer to that because I would leave it to the summit. Because it's the decision of the heads of states who will be gathering. But as my foreign minister, Dr Jaishankar says optimism is the basis of any diplomatic activity. Anybody who is involved in diplomatic activity, he has to be optimistic. So I'm part of the diplomatic community now being a member of the MEA team, so I'm optimistic about it.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong>&nbsp;Sir, you mentioned our Global South, we hosted the voice of the Global South Summit. How do you see that summit feeding into this summit, the G 20 Summit and how India can lead the global south as well?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>V Muraleedharan:</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;See, when the Prime Minister took over as the chair of the G20 Presidency, the first thing that came to action was how the concerns of the global south can get reflected in the G20s activities. Because of the many issues that we discuss, whether it is food security, whether it is climate change, whether it is the financial aspects of climate change, debt, loans, all these issues concern the global south. Practically the global south didn't have much voice within the G20 forum. So that's why under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi we had the voice of the global south. Almost 125 countries participated where they expressed their concerns, their issues. So, we feel that unless these issues are discussed, G 20 cannot become a forum where it is discussing the issues of the whole world. When you keep the issues of two-thirds of the global population out of the whole discussions, you cannot claim to discuss the whole world. So that's why we have discussed the issues of the global south in the voice of the Global South and then those issues will definitely get reflected in the deliberations that will happen and it has already got reflected during the many events that have been held as part of the G20 Presidency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION:&nbsp;</strong>So my final question is on the logistics, but you must be very busy. This is the G20 week, I mean just two days left for the summit and leaders to arrive, if you can talk about the operations that are underway, the preparedness...</p>

<p><strong>V Muraleedharan:</strong>&nbsp;See any task is easy, if there is scientific planning and planning in advance. So the government and the ministry has been making these preparations quite in advance. So we have a full Secretariat working in Sushma Swaraj Bhawan for more than a year and the entire planning has the stamp of the whole of government because Prime Minister Narendra Modi believes in the whole of government approach, so the entire government is involved, not only in government, this is the first time that G20 has become people's G20. So that's why I would say that it's not only the government, it is the entire country that is involved. So I have the experience of attending 2 such events. One was the health working group meeting in Trivandrum and the second was the Sherpa meeting in Kumarakom. During the earlier presidencies, or even in India for any international events, Vigyan Bhawan was equated with India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the message that Vigyan Bhawan is not India. India lives in its 28 states, union territories. So we will be holding meetings, in every Union Territory, every state, from Arunachal Pradesh to Ladakh, and up to Kanyakumari and Kutch. So, with all these preparations, it becomes easier when there is involvement of the people. So, the Prime Minister has been making an effort, his point has been that any activity to become fruitful, has to become a people's movement. So, we have been making it a people's movement. The logistic part also is being taken care of because people are already aware, it is not a sudden clampdown that no nobody should travel to Delhi, Delhi is hosting such an event. People are tuned to the G 20 presidency of India and that the heads of states are coming in, so the logistics part of course, the whole of Delhi is ready, there is going to be a warm welcome, there is going to be a luxurious welcome and it will be in the spirit of the ethos of India that is we treat our guests as Gods. So in spirit, that spirit, every delegate who is coming to India for this G20 Summit, he will be accorded a warm, luxurious welcome.&nbsp;</p>

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Ahead of the mega G20 summit in Delhi, Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, has pointed to how India is prepared to host several leaders and key focus areas including special invitees from the Gulf and Africa.

Ahead of the mega G20 summit in Delhi, Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, has pointed to how India is prepared to host several leaders and key focus areas including special invitees from the Gulf and Africa. In a special gesture, India has extended invitations to two Gulf countries, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman, as well as several African nations, to participate in the upcoming G20 summit scheduled to take place in Delhi on September 9th and 10th. Minister of State for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan, speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, expressed India's enthusiasm for welcoming special invitees from the Gulf region. "This summit sees three participants from the Gulf region, other than Saudi Arabia being a permanent member of the G20, the UAE and Oman are part of this, as special invitees," stated Minister Muraleedharan. India's outreach extends beyond the Gulf, as the nation is set to host the largest representation from Africa in the history of G20 summits. Countries including Nigeria, Egypt, Mauritius, and Comoros, represented by the African Union (AU) Chair, will participate. Minister Muraleedharan underscored India's commitment to engaging with Africa based on the continent's needs and requirements. "India's view about Africa has been put forward by the Prime Minister in the speech that he made in the Ugandan Parliament in Kampala, where he said that India's engagement with Africa will be on the basis of the requirement and the needs of Africa," he explained. Full interview: WION: How momentous is this occasion for India as it hosts the big summit? V Muraleedharan: India being the largest democracy and the mother of democracy, as Prime Minister always mentions, for us, definitely for every citizen of the country, it's a great occasion to host the leaders of the most, I can say, economically prosperous, the most powerful 20 heads of states, heads of governments and is the forum where 75% of the whole world's economies old talks, such a forum to have its meeting in India. It's a great occasion. And at the same time, I would also say that this is an opportunity for India to put forward the issues that India has been taking up at various international fora, especially the developing countries, the issues that concern the global south, India's achievements in various fields like the digital public infrastructure, the issues of climate change, all these issues, this is an opportunity. So, both at the substantive level as well as a host country, this gives a major opportunity for India to host the G20, so the whole country is looking forward to it and being part of MEA, personally also and as MEA is looking forward to the summit, on 9th and 10th. WION: So how does India plan to put its imprints on the global governance post this G 20 summit because India's keen to shape the global order as well? V Muraleedharan: It's a multipolar world, The views that India has been putting forward, especially of inclusive growth, especially of sustainable development, issues where living in harmony with nature. So all these aspects are being recognized by the whole world, more and more. So our solutions for many of the problems of the world, we feel that this will be an opportunity when India can put forward and there can be a consensus on those issues, which will be accepted by the most powerful of the whole world. And then that will contribute to the future of the world. So we feel that during this G20, India we'll be able to put forward those and bring about a consensus on those issues. WION: So you have been involved deeply in the Gulf region, and you have been visiting many of the Gulf countries, India has invited many Gulf countries including UAE as well to attend the G 20. Summit. So if you can talk about the rationale of India focusing on many of these Gulf countries where it's UAE or Oman, and of course Saudi Arabia is a permanent member. V Muraleedharan: Of course, this summit sees three participants from the Gulf region, other than Saudi Arabia being a permanent member of the G20, the UAE and Oman are part of this, as special invitees. For India, UAE our relationship is of multiple dimensions. One is the Indian diaspora, the largest number of Indian diaspora in a particular region, I would say that the Middle East is that region. So having representation from that region that goes along with. Second is the energy security part. And the third is that India and UAE have been friends for a long time. And together, we feel we can take forward the direction in which we would like to see how the world would shape in the coming days. So in that, we considered the Middle East countries who we have invited, they will become partners with India and as friends of India, we both can take forward this viewpoint with the direction in which we would like to go ahead. WION: Another focus has been Africa as well. We are keen to make sure that the African Union becomes a permanent invitee, during this year's G 20 summit, how do you see this focus area by the Government of India? V Muraleedharan: This G20 will have representation from Africa in the largest number. Nigeria, Egypt, Mauritius and Comoros being the AU chair. India's view about Africa has been put forward by the Prime Minister in the speech that he made in the Ugandan Parliament in Kampala, where he said that India's engagement with Africa will be on the basis of the requirements and the needs of Africa. The Prime Minister the other day, very clearly mentioned in an interview, that when we are planning to take forward the agenda for the whole world where the developing countries matter much, Africa has a very prominent role. And in the new, global scenario that is evolving, the days when the UN were formed in the days when the impression about Africa was something different. Now the situation has changed. So if the developing countries, developing nations, ' concerns are to be taken into consideration, then the 54 countries of Africa matter much. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had initiated this in 2015 when after he took over in 2014, we had a meeting of all the governments of Africa, all the countries of Africa 54 countries, and their heads of states or heads of government attended the African conference that we held. So the issues of Africa are already being discussed in G20, but this is the first time they are participating in G20. The Prime Minister has written to all the heads of state who are participants of the G20 to make the African Union, Chair of the African Union a permanent member of the G20. So it again goes in sync with what India has been proposing. This is a multipolar world, and the concerns of the global south have to be reflected in any international fora, any fora that discuss about economy, that discuss about climate change, that discuss about food security, these issues wherever it is discussed, without Africa getting due represented, getting representation that discussion cannot be completed. WION: How confident you are that the African Union will become a permanent invitee, because we have seen countries coming out in full support, US, France, are you confident that this will be that pivotal moment that the African Union will become a member? V Muraleedharan: See, I wouldn't like to give an answer to that because I would leave it to the summit. Because it's the decision of the heads of states who will be gathering. But as my foreign minister, Dr Jaishankar says optimism is the basis of any diplomatic activity. Anybody who is involved in diplomatic activity, he has to be optimistic. So I'm part of the diplomatic community now being a member of the MEA team, so I'm optimistic about it. WION: Sir, you mentioned our Global South, we hosted the voice of the Global South Summit. How do you see that summit feeding into this summit, the G 20 Summit and how India can lead the global south as well? V Muraleedharan: See, when the Prime Minister took over as the chair of the G20 Presidency, the first thing that came to action was how the concerns of the global south can get reflected in the G20s activities. Because of the many issues that we discuss, whether it is food security, whether it is climate change, whether it is the financial aspects of climate change, debt, loans, all these issues concern the global south. Practically the global south didn't have much voice within the G20 forum. So that's why under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi we had the voice of the global south. Almost 125 countries participated where they expressed their concerns, their issues. So, we feel that unless these issues are discussed, G 20 cannot become a forum where it is discussing the issues of the whole world. When you keep the issues of two-thirds of the global population out of the whole discussions, you cannot claim to discuss the whole world. So that's why we have discussed the issues of the global south in the voice of the Global South and then those issues will definitely get reflected in the deliberations that will happen and it has already got reflected during the many events that have been held as part of the G20 Presidency. WION: So my final question is on the logistics, but you must be very busy. This is the G20 week, I mean just two days left for the summit and leaders to arrive, if you can talk about the operations that are underway, the preparedness... V Muraleedharan: See any task is easy, if there is scientific planning and planning in advance. So the government and the ministry has been making these preparations quite in advance. So we have a full Secretariat working in Sushma Swaraj Bhawan for more than a year and the entire planning has the stamp of the whole of government because Prime Minister Narendra Modi believes in the whole of government approach, so the entire government is involved, not only in government, this is the first time that G20 has become people's G20. So that's why I would say that it's not only the government, it is the entire country that is involved. So I have the experience of attending 2 such events. One was the health working group meeting in Trivandrum and the second was the Sherpa meeting in Kumarakom. During the earlier presidencies, or even in India for any international events, Vigyan Bhawan was equated with India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the message that Vigyan Bhawan is not India. India lives in its 28 states, union territories. So we will be holding meetings, in every Union Territory, every state, from Arunachal Pradesh to Ladakh, and up to Kanyakumari and Kutch. So, with all these preparations, it becomes easier when there is involvement of the people. So, the Prime Minister has been making an effort, his point has been that any activity to become fruitful, has to become a people's movement. So, we have been making it a people's movement. The logistic part also is being taken care of because people are already aware, it is not a sudden clampdown that no nobody should travel to Delhi, Delhi is hosting such an event. People are tuned to the G 20 presidency of India and that the heads of states are coming in, so the logistics part of course, the whole of Delhi is ready, there is going to be a warm welcome, there is going to be a luxurious welcome and it will be in the spirit of the ethos of India that is we treat our guests as Gods. So in spirit, that spirit, every delegate who is coming to India for this G20 Summit, he will be accorded a warm, luxurious welcome. 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.

India's diplomatic outreach: MOS MEA Muraleedharan highlights Gulf & Africa Focus at G20 Summit

<p>The G20 or Group of 20 &nbsp;leaders are all set to start a summit in New Delhi on Friday (September 8). The summit is aimed at finding solutions to some of the pressing issues of global concern. The summit is likely to be attended by more than 30 heads of state and top officials from the European Union and invited guest countries and 14 heads of international organisations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the summit, the capital of India will turn&nbsp;into a fortress with bans imposed on residents and commuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Summit will be held in Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan and the attendees will also travel to Rajghat, the National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Pusa.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-guidelines-39-metro-stations-to-remain-closed-from-sept-8-to-10-check-list-632128">G20 Summit Guidelines: 39 metro stations to remain closed from Sept 8 to 10 | Check list</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Hence, the Delhi Traffic Police has issued a warning on traffic movement and restrictions in New Delhi during the summit considering the gravity of the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Online food delivery services will not be available in Delhi during the G20 leaders' summit on September 8-10. Special Commissioner of Police SS Yadav said: "Cloud kitchens and food deliveries, or any commercial deliveries like Amazon deliveries, will not be allowed as we have stopped commercial services in the NDMC area."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He clarified that there's no lockdown. "Dear Delhiites, don't panic at all! There is no lockdown. Just keep yourself updated with traffic information available on @dtpftraffic's Virtual Help Desk," the Delhi Police posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/africas-representation-at-g20-a-top-priority-says-pm-modi-ahead-of-new-delhi-summit-631948">Africa's representation at G20 a 'top priority,' says PM Modi ahead of New Delhi summit</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Dear Delhiites,<br />
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Don't panic at all! There is no lockdown.<br />
<br />
Just keep yourself updated with traffic information available on @dtpftraffic's Virtual Help Desk: <a href="https://t.co/YfjQJYjzU0">https://t.co/YfjQJYjzU0</a> or download <a href="https://twitter.com/mappls?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mappls</a> from <a href="https://t.co/xuYe7gNslA">https://t.co/xuYe7gNslA</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit</a> <a href="https://t.co/1FoOFelK3f">pic.twitter.com/1FoOFelK3f</a></p>
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<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;G20 Summit 2023: Chinese Premier Li Qiang to represent China, Xi Jinping to skip</strong>&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Delhi Police tighten&nbsp;security</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Delhi Police have made security and traffic arrangements in and around Rajghat in central Delhi ahead of G20 delegates' visit to Mahatma Gandhi's memorial.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Sanjay Kumar Sain said, "The delegates will visit Rajghat on September 10. In view of their visit, proper security arrangements are being made and traffic police personnel will ensure their visit goes smoothly."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Senior officials are continuously checking the arrangements and chalking out plans to maintain law and order. The police have tightened security in the national capital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Besides managing traffic and ensuring security arrangements, we have also chalked out a proper plan to identify the bordering areas and to secure those properly," Sain said.</p>

<p>"No one will be allowed to fly kites and operating drones will also be strictly prohibited (in the area) on September 10," the senior officer added.</p>

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The G20 or Group of 20 leaders are all set to start a summit in New Delhi on Friday (September 8). The summit is aimed at finding solutions to some of the pressing issues of global concern.

The G20 or Group of 20 leaders are all set to start a summit in New Delhi on Friday (September 8). The summit is aimed at finding solutions to some of the pressing issues of global concern. The summit is likely to be attended by more than 30 heads of state and top officials from the European Union and invited guest countries and 14 heads of international organisations. During the summit, the capital of India will turn into a fortress with bans imposed on residents and commuters. The Summit will be held in Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan and the attendees will also travel to Rajghat, the National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Pusa. Also read: G20 Summit Guidelines: 39 metro stations to remain closed from Sept 8 to 10 | Check list Hence, the Delhi Traffic Police has issued a warning on traffic movement and restrictions in New Delhi during the summit considering the gravity of the situation. Online food delivery services will not be available in Delhi during the G20 leaders' summit on September 8-10. Special Commissioner of Police SS Yadav said: "Cloud kitchens and food deliveries, or any commercial deliveries like Amazon deliveries, will not be allowed as we have stopped commercial services in the NDMC area." He clarified that there's no lockdown. "Dear Delhiites, don't panic at all! There is no lockdown. Just keep yourself updated with traffic information available on @dtpftraffic's Virtual Help Desk," the Delhi Police posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Also read: Africa's representation at G20 a 'top priority,' says PM Modi ahead of New Delhi summit Dear Delhiites, Don't panic at all! There is no lockdown. Just keep yourself updated with traffic information available on @dtpftraffic's Virtual Help Desk: https://t.co/YfjQJYjzU0 or download @Mappls from https://t.co/xuYe7gNslA.#G20Summit pic.twitter.com/1FoOFelK3f — Delhi Police (@DelhiPolice) September 3, 2023 × Watch: G20 Summit 2023: Chinese Premier Li Qiang to represent China, Xi Jinping to skip × Delhi Police tighten security The Delhi Police have made security and traffic arrangements in and around Rajghat in central Delhi ahead of G20 delegates' visit to Mahatma Gandhi's memorial. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Sanjay Kumar Sain said, "The delegates will visit Rajghat on September 10. In view of their visit, proper security arrangements are being made and traffic police personnel will ensure their visit goes smoothly." Senior officials are continuously checking the arrangements and chalking out plans to maintain law and order. The police have tightened security in the national capital. "Besides managing traffic and ensuring security arrangements, we have also chalked out a proper plan to identify the bordering areas and to secure those properly," Sain said. "No one will be allowed to fly kites and operating drones will also be strictly prohibited (in the area) on September 10," the senior officer added. 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.

G20 Summit: Security tightened in New Delhi, online food deliveries banned

Dinner invitation to G20 leaders has come as a surprise, the term President of Bharat has been used for the first time in an official invite to foreign leaders attending the summit.

'Bharat, not India': President Murmu's invitation triggers speculation

China has confirmed that president Xi Jinping will not be attending the G20 summit in New Delhi. Chinese Premier Li Qiang will head the Chinese delegation at the summit. What does it say about Xi's profile as a global statesman? Molly Gambhir decodes.

Gravitas: Xi to Skip G20 Summit in India | What It Signals About Chinese President's Leadership

The G20 Summit is about to begin in a few days in New Delhi. However, a few urges are being made to disrupt the summit. A Khalistani separatist and Sikhs for Justice founder Gurpatwant Singh Pannun released an audio message urging Kashmiri Muslims to disrupt the G20 Summit.

G20 Summit 2023: Khalistani separatist instigating Kashmiri Muslims to disrupt the New Delhi Summit

<p><strong>Delhi Metro Operations:</strong>&nbsp;Ahead of the G20 Summit in New Delhi this week, the Delhi Police Metro asked the Chief Security Commissioner to close some metro station gates that open towards the VVIP routes in order to maintain foolproof security arrangements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>New agency ANI reported that DCP Metro G Ram Gopal Naik in a letter listed 39 stations where action needed to be taken. Metro stations like Supreme Court, Janpath, Bhikaji Cama Place, Khan Market&nbsp;and Dhaula Kuan have been marked as 'Sensitive stations.'&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/africas-representation-at-g20-a-top-priority-says-pm-modi-ahead-of-new-delhi-summit-631948">Africa's representation at G20 a 'top priority,' says PM Modi ahead of New Delhi summit</a></strong></p>

<p>The two-day summit beginning on September 9 will be hosting leaders and delegates from 40 countries, including the 20 member states. World leaders like US President Joe Biden, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, French President Emmanuel Macron and heads of the World Bank, and IMF will be attending the event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The national capital, which started its G20 preparations a few months ago, has been training personnel to be deployed during the event. The preparations also include planting ornamental plants at traffic roundabouts and fountains.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Metro Gate operations in Delhi:</strong></p>

<p>Supreme Court: All gates closed&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan Market: Gates 1, 2 and 3 are closed; Gate 4 is open for entry and exit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kailash Colony: Gate 2 closed</p>

<p>Lajpat Nagar: All gates closed except Gate 5</p>

<p>Janpath: All gates closed except Gate 2</p>

<p>Bhikaji Cama Place: All gates closed</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20-summit-in-delhi-trends-show-gaps-in-leaders-attendance-each-year-631820">G20 summit in Delhi: Trends show gaps in leaders’ attendance each year</a></strong></p>

<p>Additionally gates of&nbsp;Jangpura, Ashram, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, R K Puram, Bhikaji Cama Place, Munirka, IIT, Hauz Khas, Malviya Nagar, Sadar Bazaar Cantt, Palam, Central Secretariat, Udyog Bhawan, Mandi House, ITO, Delhi gate etc will also remain closed from September 8 to 10.</p>

<p><strong>List of metro stations with no restrictions on entry and exit:</strong></p>

<p>Aero City, Dhaula Kuan, South Campus, Dwarka Sec-21, Panchsheel Park, Chirag Delhi, Greater Kailash, Nehru Enclave, Kalkaji Mandir, Rajiv Chowk, Chandini Chowk and Chawri Bazar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation said that "Tourst smart cards" will be sold through 36 dedicated metro station counters from September 4-13 in view of the summit. These cards will be available on regular days too, anticipating an increased flow of passengers. These cards will be sold for a period of 10 days.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Delhi Metro Operations: Ahead of the G20 Summit in New Delhi this week, the Delhi Police Metro asked the Chief Security Commissioner to close some metro station gates that open towards the VVIP routes in order to maintain foolproof security arrangements.

Delhi Metro Operations: Ahead of the G20 Summit in New Delhi this week, the Delhi Police Metro asked the Chief Security Commissioner to close some metro station gates that open towards the VVIP routes in order to maintain foolproof security arrangements. New agency ANI reported that DCP Metro G Ram Gopal Naik in a letter listed 39 stations where action needed to be taken. Metro stations like Supreme Court, Janpath, Bhikaji Cama Place, Khan Market and Dhaula Kuan have been marked as 'Sensitive stations.' Also read | Africa's representation at G20 a 'top priority,' says PM Modi ahead of New Delhi summit The two-day summit beginning on September 9 will be hosting leaders and delegates from 40 countries, including the 20 member states. World leaders like US President Joe Biden, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, French President Emmanuel Macron and heads of the World Bank, and IMF will be attending the event. The national capital, which started its G20 preparations a few months ago, has been training personnel to be deployed during the event. The preparations also include planting ornamental plants at traffic roundabouts and fountains. Metro Gate operations in Delhi: Supreme Court: All gates closed Khan Market: Gates 1, 2 and 3 are closed; Gate 4 is open for entry and exit. Kailash Colony: Gate 2 closed Lajpat Nagar: All gates closed except Gate 5 Janpath: All gates closed except Gate 2 Bhikaji Cama Place: All gates closed Also read | G20 summit in Delhi: Trends show gaps in leaders’ attendance each year Additionally gates of Jangpura, Ashram, Barakhamba Road, Supreme Court, R K Puram, Bhikaji Cama Place, Munirka, IIT, Hauz Khas, Malviya Nagar, Sadar Bazaar Cantt, Palam, Central Secretariat, Udyog Bhawan, Mandi House, ITO, Delhi gate etc will also remain closed from September 8 to 10. List of metro stations with no restrictions on entry and exit: Aero City, Dhaula Kuan, South Campus, Dwarka Sec-21, Panchsheel Park, Chirag Delhi, Greater Kailash, Nehru Enclave, Kalkaji Mandir, Rajiv Chowk, Chandini Chowk and Chawri Bazar. On Sunday, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation said that "Tourst smart cards" will be sold through 36 dedicated metro station counters from September 4-13 in view of the summit. These cards will be available on regular days too, anticipating an increased flow of passengers. These cards will be sold for a period of 10 days. (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.

G20 Summit Guidelines: 39 metro stations to remain closed from Sept 8 to 10 | Check list

<p>US President Joe Biden has expressed his disappointment over the Chinese leader skipping the upcoming G20 summit in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports about Xi missing the meet had been doing the rounds for a few days. On Monday, China's Foreign Ministry confirmed that&nbsp;the Chinese delegation will visit India this week under the leadership of Chinese Premier Li Qiang.</p>

<p>"I am disappointed... but I am going to get to see him," Biden told reporters on Sunday (September 3). However, he didn’t say when the next meeting between him and President Xi Jinping will take place.</p>

<p>Biden and Xi last met in Indonesia at last year’s G20 summit.</p>

<h2><strong>Worsening relations between India and China</strong></h2>

<p>Even as the border dispute between the two Asian giants drags on, Beijing has further angered its neighbours, including India, by releasing a new map that claims some parts of India to be Chinese.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just days after promising cooperation at the BRICS summit held in South Africa’s Johannesburg, China released a new map showing the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin plateau of Ladakh within Chinese boundaries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India called the new map ‘absurd, adding that such actions only complicate border disputes'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Xi had earlier confirmed that he would travel to Delhi to attend the summit.&nbsp;However, reports suggest that he might be skipping the meet&nbsp;due to the map controversy as he didn’t want to embarrass himself.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India hosts G20 Summit: Africa at top priority</strong></p>

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<p>It must be noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is also not attending the New Delhi summit due to the Russia-Ukraine crisis.</p>

<h2><strong>When could Biden-Xi meet next?</strong></h2>

<p>Xi and Biden may get a chance to sit together in November during a meeting of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders in San Francisco.</p>

<p>Xi’s decision to withdraw from the G20 summit comes as the relationship between the United States and China has continued to deteriorate over the past year.</p>

<p>Approximately three months after their last meeting in the Indonesian island of Bali last November, hopes for a reset in bilateral relations were dashed when an alleged Chinese spy balloon appeared in the skies over the United States.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-new-delhis-test-to-ace-the-g-20-exam-632028"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;The Capitals: New Delhi`s test to ace the G-20 exam</strong></a></p>

<p>The two nations are at odds over various issues, including human rights concerns in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, territorial disputes involving Taiwan and the South China Sea, as well as Beijing's increasing influence across various industries.</p>

<p>To mend relations, a number of prominent US officials have travelled to China in recent months. These officials include Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and US Special Envoy for Climate John Kerry.</p>

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US President Joe Biden has expressed his disappointment over the Chinese leader skipping the upcoming G20 summit in New Delhi. Reports about Xi missing the meet had been doing the rounds for a few days.

US President Joe Biden has expressed his disappointment over the Chinese leader skipping the upcoming G20 summit in New Delhi. Reports about Xi missing the meet had been doing the rounds for a few days. On Monday, China's Foreign Ministry confirmed that the Chinese delegation will visit India this week under the leadership of Chinese Premier Li Qiang. "I am disappointed... but I am going to get to see him," Biden told reporters on Sunday (September 3). However, he didn’t say when the next meeting between him and President Xi Jinping will take place. Biden and Xi last met in Indonesia at last year’s G20 summit. Worsening relations between India and China Even as the border dispute between the two Asian giants drags on, Beijing has further angered its neighbours, including India, by releasing a new map that claims some parts of India to be Chinese. Just days after promising cooperation at the BRICS summit held in South Africa’s Johannesburg, China released a new map showing the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Aksai Chin plateau of Ladakh within Chinese boundaries. India called the new map ‘absurd, adding that such actions only complicate border disputes'. Xi had earlier confirmed that he would travel to Delhi to attend the summit. However, reports suggest that he might be skipping the meet due to the map controversy as he didn’t want to embarrass himself. Watch: India hosts G20 Summit: Africa at top priority × It must be noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is also not attending the New Delhi summit due to the Russia-Ukraine crisis. When could Biden-Xi meet next? Xi and Biden may get a chance to sit together in November during a meeting of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders in San Francisco. Xi’s decision to withdraw from the G20 summit comes as the relationship between the United States and China has continued to deteriorate over the past year. Approximately three months after their last meeting in the Indonesian island of Bali last November, hopes for a reset in bilateral relations were dashed when an alleged Chinese spy balloon appeared in the skies over the United States. Also read: The Capitals: New Delhi`s test to ace the G-20 exam The two nations are at odds over various issues, including human rights concerns in Xinjiang and Hong Kong, territorial disputes involving Taiwan and the South China Sea, as well as Beijing's increasing influence across various industries. To mend relations, a number of prominent US officials have travelled to China in recent months. These officials include Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, and US Special Envoy for Climate John Kerry. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Joe Biden ‘disappointed’ as China’s Xi skips G20 summit. Here’s when they could meet next

<p>India backs inclusion of the African Union as a full member of the Group of 20 largest economies as no plan for the future of the planet can be successful without the representation and recognition of all voices, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday, September 3, days ahead of the annual summit of the influential bloc.</p>

<p>In an exclusive interview to PTI, PM Modi said Africa is "top priority" for India and that it works for the inclusion of those in global affairs who feel their voices are not being heard.</p>

<p>In the last few years, India has been positioning itself as a leading voice, flagging concerns, challenges and aspirations of the Global South or the developing nations, especially the African continent.</p>

<p>"I would like to draw your attention to the theme of our G20 presidency -- 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam -- One Earth, One Family, One Future'. It is not just a slogan but a comprehensive philosophy that is derived from our cultural ethos," Modi said during the wide-ranging interview at his Lok Kalyan Marg residence.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-sets-the-tone-for-un-security-council-reforms-before-hosting-g20-leaders-631947"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Modi sets the tone for UN Security Council reforms before hosting G20 leaders</strong></a></p>

<p>"This guides our outlook within India and towards the world too," he said, responding to a question on India's proposal for African Union's G20 membership.</p>

<p>The prime minister has been leading from the front on the issue of the African Union's membership of the G20. In June, Modi wrote to the G20 leaders pitching for according the African Union the full membership of the grouping at its New Delhi summit.</p>

<p>Weeks later, the proposal was formally included in the draft communique for the summit during the third G20 Sherpas meeting that took place in Karnataka's Hampi in July.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;G20 Summit: The big tasks before India as it hosts world leaders</strong></p>

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<p>A final decision on the proposal would be taken at the G20 summit to be held in New Delhi on September 9 and 10. The African Union (AU) is an influential organisation comprising 55 member states that make up the countries of the African continent.</p>

<p>The prime minister also referred to India's hosting of the Voice of the Global South summit in January that was aimed at bringing to international stage the challenges facing the developing countries.</p>

<p>"Africa is a top priority for us even within the G20. One of the first things we did during our G20 Presidency was to hold the Voice of the Global South summit, which had enthusiastic participation from Africa," Modi said.</p>

<p>"We believe that no plan for the future of the planet can be successful without the representation and recognition of all voices," he said.</p>

<p>"There is a need to come out of a purely utilitarian world view and embrace a 'Sarva Jana Hitaaya, Sarva Jana Sukhaaya’ (for the welfare of all, for the happiness of all) model," he added.</p>

<p>The prime minister noted that India's affinity to Africa is natural as it has had millennia-old cultural and commerce ties with the region.</p>

<p>"When we say we see the world as a family, we truly mean it. Every country's voice matters, no matter the size, economy or region."</p>

<p>“In this, we are also inspired by the humane vision and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr Martin Luther King Jr, Nelson Mandela, and Kwame Nkrumah," he said.</p>

<p>The prime minister said the effort towards "greater inclusion" of the Global South, particularly Africa in global affairs has gained momentum and that India's G20 presidency has sowed the "seeds of confidence" in the countries of the so-called 'Third World'.</p>

<p>"They are gaining greater confidence to shape the direction of the world in the coming years on many issues such as climate change and global institutional reforms. We will move faster towards a more representative and inclusive order where every voice is heard," he said.</p>

<p>"Further, all this will happen with the cooperation of the developed countries, because today, they are acknowledging the potential of the Global South more than ever before and recognising the aspirations of these countries as a force for the global good," he said.</p>

<p>The G20 includes the world's 19 wealthiest countries and the European Union.</p>

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India backs inclusion of the African Union as a full member of the Group of 20 largest economies as no plan for the future of the planet can be successful without the representation and recognition of all voices, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday, September 3, days ahead of the annual summit of the influential bloc.

India backs inclusion of the African Union as a full member of the Group of 20 largest economies as no plan for the future of the planet can be successful without the representation and recognition of all voices, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday, September 3, days ahead of the annual summit of the influential bloc. In an exclusive interview to PTI, PM Modi said Africa is "top priority" for India and that it works for the inclusion of those in global affairs who feel their voices are not being heard. In the last few years, India has been positioning itself as a leading voice, flagging concerns, challenges and aspirations of the Global South or the developing nations, especially the African continent. "I would like to draw your attention to the theme of our G20 presidency -- 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam -- One Earth, One Family, One Future'. It is not just a slogan but a comprehensive philosophy that is derived from our cultural ethos," Modi said during the wide-ranging interview at his Lok Kalyan Marg residence. Also read: Modi sets the tone for UN Security Council reforms before hosting G20 leaders "This guides our outlook within India and towards the world too," he said, responding to a question on India's proposal for African Union's G20 membership. The prime minister has been leading from the front on the issue of the African Union's membership of the G20. In June, Modi wrote to the G20 leaders pitching for according the African Union the full membership of the grouping at its New Delhi summit. Weeks later, the proposal was formally included in the draft communique for the summit during the third G20 Sherpas meeting that took place in Karnataka's Hampi in July. Watch: G20 Summit: The big tasks before India as it hosts world leaders × A final decision on the proposal would be taken at the G20 summit to be held in New Delhi on September 9 and 10. The African Union (AU) is an influential organisation comprising 55 member states that make up the countries of the African continent. The prime minister also referred to India's hosting of the Voice of the Global South summit in January that was aimed at bringing to international stage the challenges facing the developing countries. "Africa is a top priority for us even within the G20. One of the first things we did during our G20 Presidency was to hold the Voice of the Global South summit, which had enthusiastic participation from Africa," Modi said. "We believe that no plan for the future of the planet can be successful without the representation and recognition of all voices," he said. "There is a need to come out of a purely utilitarian world view and embrace a 'Sarva Jana Hitaaya, Sarva Jana Sukhaaya’ (for the welfare of all, for the happiness of all) model," he added. The prime minister noted that India's affinity to Africa is natural as it has had millennia-old cultural and commerce ties with the region. "When we say we see the world as a family, we truly mean it. Every country's voice matters, no matter the size, economy or region." “In this, we are also inspired by the humane vision and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr Martin Luther King Jr, Nelson Mandela, and Kwame Nkrumah," he said. The prime minister said the effort towards "greater inclusion" of the Global South, particularly Africa in global affairs has gained momentum and that India's G20 presidency has sowed the "seeds of confidence" in the countries of the so-called 'Third World'. "They are gaining greater confidence to shape the direction of the world in the coming years on many issues such as climate change and global institutional reforms. We will move faster towards a more representative and inclusive order where every voice is heard," he said. "Further, all this will happen with the cooperation of the developed countries, because today, they are acknowledging the potential of the Global South more than ever before and recognising the aspirations of these countries as a force for the global good," he said. The G20 includes the world's 19 wealthiest countries and the European Union. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Africa's representation at G20 a 'top priority,' says PM Modi ahead of New Delhi summit

<p>Ahead of the G20 summit slated to be held on Sept. 9-10, Delhi Police are undertaking full dress rehearsal on Saturday (Sept. 2). As a part of the rehearsal, several motorcades are being escorted towards the New Delhi district from several areas of the National Capital Region (NCR).&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to officials, the rehearsal takes place between 8:30 am&nbsp;and 12 noon, between 4:30 pm and 6 pm and between 7 pm and 11 pm.</p>

<p>The officials have also issued an advisory for the citizens to use Metro services for commuting&nbsp;as traffic is likely to be affected across the city.</p>

<h2><strong>Areas where traffic could be restricted</strong></h2>

<p>During the motorcade rehearsals, traffic will be restricted at Sardar Patel Marg-Panchsheel Marg, Sardar Patel Marg–Kautilya Marg, Gol Methi roundabout, Mansingh Road roundabout, C-Hexagon, Mathura Road, Zakir Hussain Marg-Subramaniam Bharti Marg, Bhairon Marg-Ring Road, Satya Marg/Shantipath round about, Janpath–Kartavyapath, Barakhamba Road traffic signal, Tolstoy Marg, and Vivekanand Marg.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Pew Survey: India viewed favourably in most G20 nations</strong></p>

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<p>Commuters using these roads should plan their journey in advance and should try to avoid these routes altogether.</p>

<p>According to police sources, commuters may experience more than normal traffic on these roads and junctions.</p>

<h2><strong>IAF also makes preparations</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian Air Force (IAF) is aggressively fortifying the airspace above the Delhi-National Capital Region, deploying fighter jets, surface-to-air missile systems, anti-drone technology, airborne early-warning and control systems (AEW&amp;C), and various sensors to ensure maximum security for the upcoming G20 summit.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/upi-goes-global-the-past-present-future-of-indias-payments-platform-630396"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;UPI goes global: The past, present &amp; future of India`s payments platform</strong></a></p>

<p>“The IAF’s ODC (operations direction centre), which will liaise with the JCAC (joint control and analysis centre) and other agencies involved, will have the composite air picture at one place to detect threats, ranging from small, slow-moving objects like drones to large, fast-moving aircraft,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India.</p>

<p>“If a threat is conclusively established, the ODC will decide what is the best method, or which particular weapon system should be used, to neutralize it,” he added.</p>

<p>According to the Northern Railway, in preparation for the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi, a total of 207 Train Services will face cancellations, while 36 Train Services will experience short terminations or origins from September 9th to 11th, as reported by&nbsp;ANI.</p>

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Ahead of the G20 summit slated to be held on Sept. 9-10, Delhi Police are undertaking full dress rehearsal on Saturday (Sept. 2). As a part of the rehearsal, several motorcades are being escorted towards the New Delhi district from several areas of the National Capital Region (NCR).

Ahead of the G20 summit slated to be held on Sept. 9-10, Delhi Police are undertaking full dress rehearsal on Saturday (Sept. 2). As a part of the rehearsal, several motorcades are being escorted towards the New Delhi district from several areas of the National Capital Region (NCR). According to officials, the rehearsal takes place between 8:30 am and 12 noon, between 4:30 pm and 6 pm and between 7 pm and 11 pm. The officials have also issued an advisory for the citizens to use Metro services for commuting as traffic is likely to be affected across the city. Areas where traffic could be restricted During the motorcade rehearsals, traffic will be restricted at Sardar Patel Marg-Panchsheel Marg, Sardar Patel Marg–Kautilya Marg, Gol Methi roundabout, Mansingh Road roundabout, C-Hexagon, Mathura Road, Zakir Hussain Marg-Subramaniam Bharti Marg, Bhairon Marg-Ring Road, Satya Marg/Shantipath round about, Janpath–Kartavyapath, Barakhamba Road traffic signal, Tolstoy Marg, and Vivekanand Marg. Watch: Gravitas: Pew Survey: India viewed favourably in most G20 nations × Commuters using these roads should plan their journey in advance and should try to avoid these routes altogether. According to police sources, commuters may experience more than normal traffic on these roads and junctions. IAF also makes preparations The Indian Air Force (IAF) is aggressively fortifying the airspace above the Delhi-National Capital Region, deploying fighter jets, surface-to-air missile systems, anti-drone technology, airborne early-warning and control systems (AEW&C), and various sensors to ensure maximum security for the upcoming G20 summit. Also read: UPI goes global: The past, present & future of India`s payments platform “The IAF’s ODC (operations direction centre), which will liaise with the JCAC (joint control and analysis centre) and other agencies involved, will have the composite air picture at one place to detect threats, ranging from small, slow-moving objects like drones to large, fast-moving aircraft,” a source was quoted as saying by the Times of India. “If a threat is conclusively established, the ODC will decide what is the best method, or which particular weapon system should be used, to neutralize it,” he added. According to the Northern Railway, in preparation for the upcoming G20 Summit in New Delhi, a total of 207 Train Services will face cancellations, while 36 Train Services will experience short terminations or origins from September 9th to 11th, as reported by ANI. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

G20 Summit: Delhi Police undertake full dress rehearsal, IAF fortifies airspace

<p>In just a week, the world’s attention will converge on New Delhi as the Indian capital plays host to its inaugural G20 Summit, an event that has drawn global leaders to address some of the most pressing issues of our time. As anticipation builds, the international community eagerly awaits confirmation from leaders, understanding that attendance dynamics are shaped by geopolitics and domestic priorities.</p>

<p>Delving into the annals of G20 Summit history reveals a remarkable consistency – since 2010, there hasn’t been a single instance where all member countries attended at the head of state/head of government (HOS/HOG) or leaders level. This pattern underscores the complexity of factors influencing leaders’ decisions to attend these pivotal gatherings.</p>

<p>The variability in attendance becomes even more striking when examining specific instances of countries being represented below the leadership level. On six occasions, a single leader from a country was absent (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017), while on five occasions, two leaders chose not to attend (2010, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-biden-xi-erdogan-among-25-world-leaders-to-be-present-at-delhi-high-table-630030">G20 Summit: Biden, Xi, Erdogan among 25+ world leaders to be present at Delhi high table</a></strong></p>

<p>The 2021 Rome Summit stands out as an anomaly, with a record-breaking six leaders skipping the G20 meeting. This occurred even as the world was recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when leaders faced critical domestic challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In contrast, the 2022 Bali Summit saw three leaders absent, overshadowed by the Ukraine conflict. Notably, this summit marked the first time the traditional “leaders’ family photo” was absent, as Western leaders hesitated to stand alongside Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.</p>

<p>Examining individual country data reveals a spectrum of commitment to G20 Summit attendance. Nations such as Canada, Germany, India, Italy, South Korea, Turkey, the UK, the USA, and the European Union have consistently upheld leadership-level attendance, underscoring their dedication to the global stage.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-not-attend-g20-in-india-but-set-to-visit-china-for-belt-and-road-forum-630307">Putin will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum</a></strong></p>

<p>In contrast, some nations have experienced sporadic attendance. Mexico, for instance, has been represented by a minister since 2018 instead of its president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Argentina, Australia, Brazil, and Russia each have had two instances of lower-level representation, while China, France, Indonesia, Japan, and South Africa have experienced a single such occurrence. A notable exception is Saudi Arabia, which attended G20 summits below the leadership level on nine occasions, including one instance featuring a Minister of State without portfolio in 2017.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin hasn’t attended a G20 summit in person since the 2019 Osaka summit. He was notably absent from the Italy (2021) and Indonesia (2022) summits and is set to skip the upcoming India (2023) summit. Just like last year, Russia will be represented by Foreign Minister Lavrov this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-hope-xi-jinping-attends-g20-summit-says-biden-631067">&nbsp;I hope Xi Jinping attends G20 Summit in New Delhi, says Biden</a></strong></p>

<p>The G20 Summit, elevated to the leaders’ level in 2008, has continued to evolve as a pivotal diplomatic forum. With two summits held in 2009 and 2010, the rotation, after India extends to Brazil in 2024, South Africa in 2025, and the United States in 2026.&nbsp;</p>

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In just a week, the world’s attention will converge on New Delhi as the Indian capital plays host to its inaugural G20 Summit, an event that has drawn global leaders to address some of the most pressing issues of our time.

In just a week, the world’s attention will converge on New Delhi as the Indian capital plays host to its inaugural G20 Summit, an event that has drawn global leaders to address some of the most pressing issues of our time. As anticipation builds, the international community eagerly awaits confirmation from leaders, understanding that attendance dynamics are shaped by geopolitics and domestic priorities. Delving into the annals of G20 Summit history reveals a remarkable consistency – since 2010, there hasn’t been a single instance where all member countries attended at the head of state/head of government (HOS/HOG) or leaders level. This pattern underscores the complexity of factors influencing leaders’ decisions to attend these pivotal gatherings. The variability in attendance becomes even more striking when examining specific instances of countries being represented below the leadership level. On six occasions, a single leader from a country was absent (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017), while on five occasions, two leaders chose not to attend (2010, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019). ALSO READ | G20 Summit: Biden, Xi, Erdogan among 25+ world leaders to be present at Delhi high table The 2021 Rome Summit stands out as an anomaly, with a record-breaking six leaders skipping the G20 meeting. This occurred even as the world was recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when leaders faced critical domestic challenges. In contrast, the 2022 Bali Summit saw three leaders absent, overshadowed by the Ukraine conflict. Notably, this summit marked the first time the traditional “leaders’ family photo” was absent, as Western leaders hesitated to stand alongside Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Examining individual country data reveals a spectrum of commitment to G20 Summit attendance. Nations such as Canada, Germany, India, Italy, South Korea, Turkey, the UK, the USA, and the European Union have consistently upheld leadership-level attendance, underscoring their dedication to the global stage. ALSO READ | Putin will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum In contrast, some nations have experienced sporadic attendance. Mexico, for instance, has been represented by a minister since 2018 instead of its president. Argentina, Australia, Brazil, and Russia each have had two instances of lower-level representation, while China, France, Indonesia, Japan, and South Africa have experienced a single such occurrence. A notable exception is Saudi Arabia, which attended G20 summits below the leadership level on nine occasions, including one instance featuring a Minister of State without portfolio in 2017. Russian President Vladimir Putin hasn’t attended a G20 summit in person since the 2019 Osaka summit. He was notably absent from the Italy (2021) and Indonesia (2022) summits and is set to skip the upcoming India (2023) summit. Just like last year, Russia will be represented by Foreign Minister Lavrov this year. ALSO READ | I hope Xi Jinping attends G20 Summit in New Delhi, says Biden The G20 Summit, elevated to the leaders’ level in 2008, has continued to evolve as a pivotal diplomatic forum. With two summits held in 2009 and 2010, the rotation, after India extends to Brazil in 2024, South Africa in 2025, and the United States in 2026. 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.

G20 summit in Delhi: Trends show gaps in leaders’ attendance each year

<p>At a time when Russian and Chinese presidents have decided to skip the G20 summit in New Delhi, US President Joe Biden will arrive in the Indian capital city, two days in advance to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The White House on Friday (September 1) informed Biden will travel to India on September 7 to attend the summit, scheduled to take place on September 9 and 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On September 8, Biden is expected to participate in a bilateral meeting with PM Modi to further strengthen the growing ties between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On Thursday (September 7), the President will travel to New Delhi, India to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit. On Friday, the President will participate in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the statement by the White House read.</p>

<p>Among other topics of discussion, the economic and social impacts of Russian President Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine may also feature heavily in the talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"While in New Delhi, the President will also commend Prime Minister Modi's leadership of the G20 and reaffirm the US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation, including by hosting it in 2026," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch&nbsp;|&nbsp;Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Putin to visit China</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the White House statement came hours after Putin in a televised address, called his Chinese counterpart a 'friend', adding that he was planning to visit Beijing soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Quite soon we will have events, and there will be a meeting with the president of the People’s Republic of China," said Putin, according to Russian news agency Interfax.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He (Xi) calls me his friend, and I am happy to call him my friend, because he is a person who does a lot for the development of Russian-Chinese relations."</p>

<p>Earlier this week, Putin announced that he was not travelling to India to attend the G20 summit in person. The Russian leader held a telephonic conversation with PM&nbsp;Modi and cited his 'busy schedule' for giving the all-important summit a miss.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-will-not-attend-g20-in-india-but-set-to-visit-china-for-belt-and-road-forum-630307"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Putin will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum</strong></a></p>

<p>Similarly, a day after releasing a&nbsp;controversial map that antagonised the entire neighbourhood, reports claimed that Xi was giving the G20 summit a miss in New Delhi.&nbsp;Premier Li Qiang is expected to represent Beijing at the September 9-10 meeting.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, China has emerged as one of the most powerful allies of Moscow. The Xi Jinping regime has refused to blame Moscow for the war and instead, attacked the Western nations for imposing sanctions on Russia and profiting from the war</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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At a time when Russian and Chinese presidents have decided to skip the G20 summit in New Delhi, US President Joe Biden will arrive in the Indian capital city, two days in advance to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

At a time when Russian and Chinese presidents have decided to skip the G20 summit in New Delhi, US President Joe Biden will arrive in the Indian capital city, two days in advance to hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The White House on Friday (September 1) informed Biden will travel to India on September 7 to attend the summit, scheduled to take place on September 9 and 10. On September 8, Biden is expected to participate in a bilateral meeting with PM Modi to further strengthen the growing ties between the two countries. "On Thursday (September 7), the President will travel to New Delhi, India to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit. On Friday, the President will participate in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi," the statement by the White House read. Among other topics of discussion, the economic and social impacts of Russian President Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine may also feature heavily in the talks. "While in New Delhi, the President will also commend Prime Minister Modi's leadership of the G20 and reaffirm the US commitment to the G20 as the premier forum of economic cooperation, including by hosting it in 2026," it said. Watch | Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India Putin to visit China Notably, the White House statement came hours after Putin in a televised address, called his Chinese counterpart a 'friend', adding that he was planning to visit Beijing soon. "Quite soon we will have events, and there will be a meeting with the president of the People’s Republic of China," said Putin, according to Russian news agency Interfax. "He (Xi) calls me his friend, and I am happy to call him my friend, because he is a person who does a lot for the development of Russian-Chinese relations." Earlier this week, Putin announced that he was not travelling to India to attend the G20 summit in person. The Russian leader held a telephonic conversation with PM Modi and cited his 'busy schedule' for giving the all-important summit a miss. Also read | Putin will not attend G20 in India but set to visit China for Belt and Road forum Similarly, a day after releasing a controversial map that antagonised the entire neighbourhood, reports claimed that Xi was giving the G20 summit a miss in New Delhi. Premier Li Qiang is expected to represent Beijing at the September 9-10 meeting. Ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, China has emerged as one of the most powerful allies of Moscow. The Xi Jinping regime has refused to blame Moscow for the war and instead, attacked the Western nations for imposing sanctions on Russia and profiting from the war (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

While Xi, Putin skip G20, Biden to reach India two days before summit to meet PM Modi

As Brazil prepares to assume the G20 Chair in 2024, the country's ambassador to India, Kenneth Felix Haczynski da Nobrega, has expressed optimism about the role of India in bridging global divides. Ambassador Felix commended India's expertise in fostering unity amidst challenges, particularly regarding the G7-Russia-China dynamics at the G20 grouping and the possibility of a joint statement. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he said, "India's Chairmanship has shown real expertise in trying to bridge those differences. Brazil, I think, perhaps will benefit from the efforts India has been making in addressing this divide".

G20's next chair Brazil pins hope on India as Ambassador Felix cites efforts on joint statement

<p>US President Joe Biden has expressed hope that Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the G20 Summit set to take place in India next week. There are reports that Xi might skip the meet.</p>

<p>“I hope he attends,” Biden told reporters on Thursday (August 31) in Washington while US officials played down the possibility of a Biden-Xi meeting in New Delhi. The officials suggested that it is more likely that the two leaders would meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or Apec conference which is due to be held in San Francisco in the month of November.</p>

<p>Reuters had reported the possibility of a meeting between Biden and Xi on Thursday. It has been reported that Xi's decision to skip the G20 Summit may be linked to China's rivalry with India. Reuters cited sources who said that Chinese officials had informed them about the expected absence of Xi Jinping at G20 Summit but they were unaware of the reason.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | India: Sculptures and fountains illuminated for the upcoming G20 Summit in Delhi</strong></p>

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<p>Relations between India and China came under fresh strain this week after Beijing released a map that showed the Indian territory of Arunachal Pradesh as part of China. The map also includes Doklam Plateau, a region the two countries have feuded over, within Chinese borders.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, India lodged a formal objection with China while the latter urged India to "stay calm" over the map. Wang Wenbin, Spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, called on nations to not over-interpret the map that&nbsp;also laid claim to the South China Sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-vietnam-malaysia-philippines-and-taiwan-reject-chinas-new-controversial-map-release-statements-631063">India, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines and Taiwan reject China's new 'controversial' map, release statements</a></strong></p>

<p>Since he became president, Xi has attended all G20 meets in person,&nbsp;except in 2021 when he joined via video link due to the Covid pandemic.</p>

<p>Reports suggest that Chinese Premier Li Qiang was expected to represent China at the G20 Summit in New Delhi. The summit starts on September 9.</p>

<p>According to the Japanese news outlet Kyodo, Li is also expected to attend a summit of East and Southeast Asian leaders in Jakarta. The summit will take place between September 5 and 7.</p>

<p>Biden has confirmed his presence at the G20 Summit. Given the strained relations between the US and China, it was expected that Biden and Xi Jinping would meet to ease the tension.</p>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin has already said that he will not be travelling to New Delhi. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would represent Russia during the summit.</p>

<p>India is coming off a successful lunar landing and G20 Summit is likely to be an important showcase for the country. India is seeking to project itself as a rising power with a vast market and a destination for global supply chain diversification.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20s-next-chair-brazil-pins-hope-on-india-as-ambassador-felix-cites-efforts-on-joint-statement-630990">G20's next chair Brazil pins hope on India as Ambassador Felix cites efforts on joint statement</a></strong></p>

<p>But relations between India and China have been strained for the past few years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“China doesn’t want India to be the voice of the Global South, or to be that country within the Himalayan region to be hosting this very successful G20 summit,” said Farwa Aamer, director of South Asia Initiatives at the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) in New York. Anwar was quoted by The Guardian.</p>

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US President Joe Biden has expressed hope that Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the G20 Summit set to take place in India next week. There are reports that Xi might skip the meet.

US President Joe Biden has expressed hope that Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the G20 Summit set to take place in India next week. There are reports that Xi might skip the meet. “I hope he attends,” Biden told reporters on Thursday (August 31) in Washington while US officials played down the possibility of a Biden-Xi meeting in New Delhi. The officials suggested that it is more likely that the two leaders would meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or Apec conference which is due to be held in San Francisco in the month of November. Reuters had reported the possibility of a meeting between Biden and Xi on Thursday. It has been reported that Xi's decision to skip the G20 Summit may be linked to China's rivalry with India. Reuters cited sources who said that Chinese officials had informed them about the expected absence of Xi Jinping at G20 Summit but they were unaware of the reason. Watch | India: Sculptures and fountains illuminated for the upcoming G20 Summit in Delhi × Relations between India and China came under fresh strain this week after Beijing released a map that showed the Indian territory of Arunachal Pradesh as part of China. The map also includes Doklam Plateau, a region the two countries have feuded over, within Chinese borders. On Tuesday, India lodged a formal objection with China while the latter urged India to "stay calm" over the map. Wang Wenbin, Spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, called on nations to not over-interpret the map that also laid claim to the South China Sea. Also Read | India, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines and Taiwan reject China's new 'controversial' map, release statements Since he became president, Xi has attended all G20 meets in person, except in 2021 when he joined via video link due to the Covid pandemic. Reports suggest that Chinese Premier Li Qiang was expected to represent China at the G20 Summit in New Delhi. The summit starts on September 9. According to the Japanese news outlet Kyodo, Li is also expected to attend a summit of East and Southeast Asian leaders in Jakarta. The summit will take place between September 5 and 7. Biden has confirmed his presence at the G20 Summit. Given the strained relations between the US and China, it was expected that Biden and Xi Jinping would meet to ease the tension. Russian President Vladimir Putin has already said that he will not be travelling to New Delhi. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov would represent Russia during the summit. India is coming off a successful lunar landing and G20 Summit is likely to be an important showcase for the country. India is seeking to project itself as a rising power with a vast market and a destination for global supply chain diversification. Also Read | G20's next chair Brazil pins hope on India as Ambassador Felix cites efforts on joint statement But relations between India and China have been strained for the past few years. “China doesn’t want India to be the voice of the Global South, or to be that country within the Himalayan region to be hosting this very successful G20 summit,” said Farwa Aamer, director of South Asia Initiatives at the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) in New York. Anwar was quoted by The Guardian. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

I hope Xi Jinping attends G20 Summit in New Delhi, says Biden

<p>As India gears up to host the G20 summit in its capital New Delhi, and welcome leaders from around the world, security is a top priority.</p>

<p>For the security of the influential attendees of the two-day summit, which starts from September 9, India will be deploying more than 100,000 security officers.</p>

<h2><strong>Security arrangements</strong></h2>

<p>India will be hosting&nbsp;some of its most high-profile guests during the G20 Summit. Influential leaders attending the summit include US President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and Saudi Arabia's Mohammed Bin Salman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>New Delhi, as per reports, will be closely guarded. During the summit, access will be regulated.</p>

<p>130,000 security personnel — including the 80,000-strong Delhi Police — will manage the security of the high-profile G20 Summit.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-g20-summit-shringla-emphasis-on-global-south-focus-african-union-inclusion-631230">Ahead of G20 summit, Shringla emphasis on Global South focus, African Union inclusion</a></strong></p>

<p>Dependra Pathak, special commissioner of the Delhi Police who is in charge of security arrangements in the city said, "This is a historic and momentous moment."</p>

<p>As per him, thousands of personnel from government security services, including the home guards and the paramilitary Border Security Force, will be brought in to maintain law and order.</p>

<p>"To contain protests and gatherings, we will have adequate and robust police presence," said Pathak.</p>

<h2><strong>Aerial security</strong></h2>

<p>Reuters reports that the Indian Air Force will also play a role in aerospace defence in and around Delhi. The air force, along with the Delhi Police and paramilitary forces, will also deploy anti-drone systems to prevent any aerial threats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, security control rooms are being set up at the venue, and special arrangements have been made at key hotels where world leaders will stay. 400 firefighters will also be on call during the G20 Summit.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/delhi-places-langur-cut-outs-across-g20-venues-to-keep-monkeys-at-bay-630930">Watch: Delhi places ‘langur’ cut-outs across G20 venues to keep monkeys at bay</a></strong></p>

<p>Furthermore, to accommodate the summit, New Delhi will undergo a partial shutdown. Schools, government departments, and businesses in the city of 20 million people have been asked to remain closed for three days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned India's year-long presidency of the G20 into a national event, hosting meetings in various key locations around the country.</p>

<p>Despite the substantial security presence, India has requested participating countries to be "rational" about the number of cars and personnel they bring.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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As India gears up to host the G20 summit in its capital New Delhi, and welcome leaders from around the world, security is a top priority. For the security of the influential attendees of the two-day summit, which starts from September 9, India will be deploying more than 100,000 security officers.

As India gears up to host the G20 summit in its capital New Delhi, and welcome leaders from around the world, security is a top priority. For the security of the influential attendees of the two-day summit, which starts from September 9, India will be deploying more than 100,000 security officers. Security arrangements India will be hosting some of its most high-profile guests during the G20 Summit. Influential leaders attending the summit include US President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and Saudi Arabia's Mohammed Bin Salman. New Delhi, as per reports, will be closely guarded. During the summit, access will be regulated. 130,000 security personnel — including the 80,000-strong Delhi Police — will manage the security of the high-profile G20 Summit. Also read | Ahead of G20 summit, Shringla emphasis on Global South focus, African Union inclusion Dependra Pathak, special commissioner of the Delhi Police who is in charge of security arrangements in the city said, "This is a historic and momentous moment." As per him, thousands of personnel from government security services, including the home guards and the paramilitary Border Security Force, will be brought in to maintain law and order. "To contain protests and gatherings, we will have adequate and robust police presence," said Pathak. Aerial security Reuters reports that the Indian Air Force will also play a role in aerospace defence in and around Delhi. The air force, along with the Delhi Police and paramilitary forces, will also deploy anti-drone systems to prevent any aerial threats. Additionally, security control rooms are being set up at the venue, and special arrangements have been made at key hotels where world leaders will stay. 400 firefighters will also be on call during the G20 Summit. Also read | Watch: Delhi places ‘langur’ cut-outs across G20 venues to keep monkeys at bay Furthermore, to accommodate the summit, New Delhi will undergo a partial shutdown. Schools, government departments, and businesses in the city of 20 million people have been asked to remain closed for three days. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has turned India's year-long presidency of the G20 into a national event, hosting meetings in various key locations around the country. Despite the substantial security presence, India has requested participating countries to be "rational" about the number of cars and personnel they bring. (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.

India fortifies New Delhi: Over 130,000 officers, air support to ensure safety at G20 Summit

Several fountains have been erected recently to improve the appearance of the city and provide a warm welcome to dignitaries during the G20 Summit.

India: Sculptures and fountains illuminated for the upcoming G20 Summit in Delhi

Hospitals under the Central and Delhi governments are preparing for the upcoming G20 Summit. Dedicated helplines, disaster wards, and corridors for patients are being created.

G20 Summit 2023: How are Delhi hospitals preparing for the Summit?

<p>Ahead of the G20 summit slated to be held in India’s Delhi, the city is decked up with flowers, fountains and also ‘langur’ cut-outs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Life-size ‘langur’ cut-outs have been installed at several locations across the city to deal with the monkey menace. These cut-outs appear so lifelike that people might mistake them for actual grey ‘langur’.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20Summit2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20Summit2023</a> Delhi: Lifesize langur cutouts placed by civic authorities to scare away monkeys<br />
<br />
Not only that, there might be people around those cutouts to mimic the sounds of langurs<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20SummitDelhiFAQs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20SummitDelhiFAQs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G20delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G20delhi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiReadyForG20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiReadyForG20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/DjduKJZAvG">pic.twitter.com/DjduKJZAvG</a></p>
— Ritam English (@EnglishRitam) <a href="https://twitter.com/EnglishRitam/status/1697182246749298859?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>And not just the cut-outs, 40 specially trained personnel will also be deployed across different G20 venues to mimic sounds made by ‘langur’.</p>

<h2><strong>Why the cut-outs are being installed?</strong></h2>

<p>Delhi is not new to monkey menace, something which India would not like to introduce to esteemed G20 guests, including the world media and global leaders.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Xi Jinping likely to skip G20 summit in India</strong></p>

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<p>So, ‘langur’ cut-outs are being erected as monkeys usually avoid crossing into territories occupied by langurs.</p>

<p>Officials in Delhi always resort to such tactics ahead of any major event, such as the upcoming G20 summit.</p>

<h2><strong>Where have these cut-outs been installed?</strong></h2>

<p>The life-size cut-outs can be spotted on Delhi’s Sardar Patel Marg as well as the Central Ridge area that's located near Connaught Place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Central Ridge includes 864 hectares of land that was converted into a reserve forest in 1914 and stretches from just south of Sadar Bazaar to Dhaula Kuan.</p>

<p>Delhi officials say the measure has been taken in coordination with the Delhi Forest Department.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-putin-xi-likely-to-pull-out-of-g20-summit-in-india-report-630771"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;After Putin, Xi likely to pull out of G20 summit in India: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The purpose of the measure is to confine monkeys to the forest area so that they don’t cause any menace to G20 guests and dignitaries.</p>

<p>“Langur cutouts have been put up on an experimental basis, and we have to see how much actual impact they have on the density of monkeys,” Vice-chairman of New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) Satish Upadhyay said.</p>

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Ahead of the G20 summit slated to be held in India’s Delhi, the city is decked up with flowers, fountains and also ‘langur’ cut-outs. Life-size ‘langur’ cut-outs have been installed at several locations across the city to deal with the monkey menace.

Ahead of the G20 summit slated to be held in India’s Delhi, the city is decked up with flowers, fountains and also ‘langur’ cut-outs. Life-size ‘langur’ cut-outs have been installed at several locations across the city to deal with the monkey menace. These cut-outs appear so lifelike that people might mistake them for actual grey ‘langur’. #WATCH | #G20Summit2023 Delhi: Lifesize langur cutouts placed by civic authorities to scare away monkeys Not only that, there might be people around those cutouts to mimic the sounds of langurs#G20India #G20SummitDelhiFAQs #G20 #G20delhi #DelhiReadyForG20 #Delhi pic.twitter.com/DjduKJZAvG — Ritam English (@EnglishRitam) August 31, 2023 × And not just the cut-outs, 40 specially trained personnel will also be deployed across different G20 venues to mimic sounds made by ‘langur’. Why the cut-outs are being installed? Delhi is not new to monkey menace, something which India would not like to introduce to esteemed G20 guests, including the world media and global leaders. Watch: Xi Jinping likely to skip G20 summit in India × So, ‘langur’ cut-outs are being erected as monkeys usually avoid crossing into territories occupied by langurs. Officials in Delhi always resort to such tactics ahead of any major event, such as the upcoming G20 summit. Where have these cut-outs been installed? The life-size cut-outs can be spotted on Delhi’s Sardar Patel Marg as well as the Central Ridge area that's located near Connaught Place. The Central Ridge includes 864 hectares of land that was converted into a reserve forest in 1914 and stretches from just south of Sadar Bazaar to Dhaula Kuan. Delhi officials say the measure has been taken in coordination with the Delhi Forest Department. Also read: After Putin, Xi likely to pull out of G20 summit in India: Report The purpose of the measure is to confine monkeys to the forest area so that they don’t cause any menace to G20 guests and dignitaries. “Langur cutouts have been put up on an experimental basis, and we have to see how much actual impact they have on the density of monkeys,” Vice-chairman of New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) Satish Upadhyay said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Delhi places ‘langur’ cut-outs across G20 venues to keep monkeys at bay

Chinese President XI Jinping is likely to skip the G20 Summit in India next week.

Xi Jinping to skip G20 Summit in New Delhi?

Only a few days are left for the G20 Summit. India is hosting the G20 summit for the first time in history. More than 25 world leaders will convene at the Summit on September 9-10. Know who all are coming for G20 summit 2023.

G20 Summit 2023: Who is attending, who is skipping?

Destinations near Delhi are seeing an unusual uptick of travel inquiries between September 6-10.This is because a new long weekend has emerged due to the G20 summit and Janmashtami festival. September 8-10 have been declared public holidays because of the G20 summit in Delhi.

Why are people of Delhi suddenly looking for holiday destinations in September?

50 VVIP aircraft are expected to land in #India's capital #Delhi for the #G20 summit next month. The Indira Gandhi International Airport and the IAF base have parking space for only about 40 aircraft. Where will the jets land? Molly Gambhir tells you more

Gravitas: G20 Summit: Where will global leaders park their jets?

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming G20 Summit in India in September in person, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday (Aug 25).</p>

<p>Peskov said due to the “special military operation” in Ukraine, Putin won’t be able to attend the event in person. He said that the format of the Russian leader's participation would be determined later.</p>

<p>"No, the president has no such plans,” the official Tass news agency quoted the Kremlin spokesman as saying.</p>

<p>The last time the Russian president attended the G20 summit in person was in 2019 in Osaka, Japan.</p>

<p>During the summits in 2020 (Riyadh) and 2021 (Rome), both held during the Covid pandemic, Putin was present virtually.</p>

<p>He missed the 2022 Bali summit, where he was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.</p>

<h2><strong>Skipped BRICS Summit as well</strong></h2>

<p>He also had decided to skip the just-concluded first in-person BRICS summit in&nbsp;Johannesburg as the&nbsp;International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March over war crimes in the war on Ukraine.</p>

<p>South Africa, the BRICS summit host country, is an ICC signatory and was expected to help in Putin's arrest if he was present in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian President Putin: We unanimously stand for shaping a multipolar world order</strong></h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-president-putin-we-unanimously-stand-for-shaping-a-multipolar-world-order-628720/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>India, on the other hand, is not a member of the ICC, and has never signed its core treaty, the 'Rome Statute'. India has in the past hosted individuals that faced action from the ICC.</p>

<p>In 2015, ahead of then-Sudanese president Omar Hassan al-Bashir’s visit to New Delhi for the India-Africa Summit, the ICC had told India to arrest the African leader and hand him over to international authorities.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-dismisses-chinas-claim-that-request-for-modis-meet-with-xi-came-from-new-delhi-628983">BRICS summit: India dismisses China claim that New Delhi sought Modi-Xi meet</a></p>

<p>In 2009 and 2010, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Bashir, who was allegedly responsible for genocide and war crimes in the western Darfur region of Sudan.</p>

<h2><strong>Delegations to start arriving on Sept 8</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, many head of the states are expected to visit India on September 8&nbsp;for the G20 Summit in the capital New Delhi. Among the leaders expected to visit are US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-breaks-silence-on-prigozhin-says-he-made-some-mistakes-628863">Russian President Putin condoles Wagner chief's death, says 'he made some mistakes</a></p>

<p>The delegates will reach India on September 9. A gala dinner is planned in their honour on that day, and the attendees will visit Rajghat on September 10.</p>

<p>The representatives of nine "guest countries" —Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain and the United Arab Emirates — have also been invited by India for the summit.</p>

<p>The summit will be held on September 9-10 at the newly-built Bharat Mandapam convention centre in Delhi's erstwhile Pragati Maidan. The 18th G20 Leaders’ Summit will be a culmination of all the G20 processes and meetings held throughout the year among ministers, senior officials and civil society.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming G20 Summit in India in September in person, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday (Aug 25).

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming G20 Summit in India in September in person, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday (Aug 25). Peskov said due to the “special military operation” in Ukraine, Putin won’t be able to attend the event in person. He said that the format of the Russian leader's participation would be determined later. "No, the president has no such plans,” the official Tass news agency quoted the Kremlin spokesman as saying. The last time the Russian president attended the G20 summit in person was in 2019 in Osaka, Japan. During the summits in 2020 (Riyadh) and 2021 (Rome), both held during the Covid pandemic, Putin was present virtually. He missed the 2022 Bali summit, where he was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Skipped BRICS Summit as well He also had decided to skip the just-concluded first in-person BRICS summit in Johannesburg as the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for him in March over war crimes in the war on Ukraine. South Africa, the BRICS summit host country, is an ICC signatory and was expected to help in Putin's arrest if he was present in the country. Russian President Putin: We unanimously stand for shaping a multipolar world order India, on the other hand, is not a member of the ICC, and has never signed its core treaty, the 'Rome Statute'. India has in the past hosted individuals that faced action from the ICC. In 2015, ahead of then-Sudanese president Omar Hassan al-Bashir’s visit to New Delhi for the India-Africa Summit, the ICC had told India to arrest the African leader and hand him over to international authorities. Also read | BRICS summit: India dismisses China claim that New Delhi sought Modi-Xi meet In 2009 and 2010, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Bashir, who was allegedly responsible for genocide and war crimes in the western Darfur region of Sudan. Delegations to start arriving on Sept 8 Meanwhile, many head of the states are expected to visit India on September 8 for the G20 Summit in the capital New Delhi. Among the leaders expected to visit are US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak among others. Also read | Russian President Putin condoles Wagner chief's death, says 'he made some mistakes The delegates will reach India on September 9. A gala dinner is planned in their honour on that day, and the attendees will visit Rajghat on September 10. The representatives of nine "guest countries" —Bangladesh, Egypt, Mauritius, Netherlands, Nigeria, Oman, Singapore, Spain and the United Arab Emirates — have also been invited by India for the summit. The summit will be held on September 9-10 at the newly-built Bharat Mandapam convention centre in Delhi's erstwhile Pragati Maidan. The 18th G20 Leaders’ Summit will be a culmination of all the G20 processes and meetings held throughout the year among ministers, senior officials and civil society.

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