As world leaders arrived for the G20 Summit starting on Saturday, India announced on Friday that the New Delhi Declaration at the end of the Summit will represent the voices of the Global South and developing countries.

During a press conference before the Summit, India’s G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant stated, “The New Leaders’ Declaration, which will be released post-Summit, will strongly reflect the perspectives of the Global South and developing countries. It will be a unique document advocating for these regions.”

Kant emphasized, “Our Presidency began with a meeting representing the Global South, where we gathered the perspectives of 125 leaders. Throughout, we have remained focused on the needs of developing countries.”

He added, “Our inclusive, decisive, and action-oriented Presidency is nearing completion of the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration. I refrain from discussing its contents until leaders recommend and approve it.”

Kant highlighted Prime Minister’s vision for an inclusive G20 Presidency, which has seen participation from 19 G20 countries, the EU, 29 special invited countries, three regional organizations, and 11 international organizations in over 220 meetings held in India.

India assumed the G20 Presidency amidst global economic challenges due to the pandemic’s impact on growth, employment, sustainable development goals, and climate action. Kant shared that India chose the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the world is one family) to guide its Presidency.

Regarding the Summit declaration, Kant preferred to wait until after the Summit to provide insights, as the process is ongoing.

Accompanied by other officials, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra outlined the Summit’s structured conference program, comprising sessions on One Earth, One Family, and One Future, as well as various sideline events involving Heads of State.

Additionally, there will be a dinner hosted by President on Saturday, a visit to Rajghat to honor Mahatma Gandhi, and a program for spouses. Prime Minister Modi will engage in bilateral meetings and discussions with visiting leaders during the Summit.

Chief Coordinator (G20) Harsh Vardhan Shringla praised India’s hosting of G20 meetings across states and Union Territories as a prime example of cooperative federalism, reflecting the involvement of millions of citizens in the process.