G20 summit: PM Modi addresses trust deficit crisis

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called on the international community to transform the global trust deficit into trust and dependence. He stressed that it is time for the world to act together.

In his speech at the first session of the G20 One Planet Summit during India’s presidency, Prime Minister Modi said: “In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world faces a new challenge of trust deficit, which has unfortunately been further deepened by war. But we must remember that if we can defeat a pandemic like COVID-19, we can also defeat this trust deficit challenge. Today, as the Chair of the G20, India calls on the world to transform this global trust deficit into trust and confidence. Now is the time for all of us to act together.

He further said, “At this time, the slogan of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas’ can be our torchbearer. Be it the divide between North and South, the distance between East and West, or food and fuel management, terrorism, cyber security, health, energy or water security, we must find a solid solution for the future generations.

Inaugurating the first session of the summit at Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan, Prime Minister Modi also invited the Chairman of the African Union to join the G20 as a member. Subsequently, the President of the Union of Comoros and Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Azali Assoumani, joined the G20 as a permanent member.

Ahead of the G20 summit, Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences for the loss of life in Morocco due to the earthquake. “We pray for a speedy recovery for all the injured. India is ready to provide all possible assistance to Morocco during this difficult period,” Prime Minister Modi said.

Ahead of the G20 summit, Prime Minister Modi welcomed leaders including US President Joe Biden, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

As the leaders arrived, PM Modi greeted them as the Konark Wheel from Odisha was displayed in the background. The Konark Wheel was built in the 13th century during the reign of King Narasimha Deva I. The 24-spoked wheel, which has been adapted as the Indian national flag, embodies India’s ancient wisdom, advanced civilization and architectural excellence.

The Konark Wheel’s spinning motion symbolizes time, Kalachakra, and progress and continuous change. It is a powerful symbol of the Wheel of Democracy, reflecting the resilience of democratic ideals and the commitment to social progress.

This year’s G20 summit is chaired by India, and its theme is “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, which means “One Planet, One Family, One Future”. It is worth noting that India assumed the G20 presidency on December 1 last year.