The G20 Summit Declaration, held under the theme ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ in New Delhi, addresses key global challenges, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Leaders from the world’s largest economies gathered to discuss critical issues that impact the global community. The declaration, while touching on various aspects of international relations, cooperation, and sustainable development, places a significant focus on the situation in Ukraine.
the G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant hailed the New Delhi Declaration as “historic and groundbreaking” on Friday. Kant expressed immense satisfaction, emphasizing that India had achieved unanimous consensus, a resounding “100 percent,” on a broad spectrum of developmental and geopolitical matters. These issues were meticulously centered around the pursuit of Strong, Sustainable, Balanced, and Inclusive Growth, ultimately aimed at accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement confirming the attainment of consensus on the New Delhi G20 Leaders’ Summit Declaration and its subsequent adoption, G20 Sherpa Kant extended his heartfelt congratulations to India. He described the declaration as “historic and pathbreaking,” underlining its significance in shaping the geopolitical landscape. Here are the key points that were highlighted in the joint declaration:
Ukraine: A Global Concern
The declaration reaffirms the commitment of G20 nations to the principles outlined in the United Nations Charter, emphasizing the importance of upholding territorial integrity and sovereignty. It underscores the need to resolve conflicts peacefully, through diplomacy and dialogue, while condemning the threat or use of force to acquire territory. The declaration also unequivocally states that the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is unacceptable.
Recognizing the far-reaching consequences of the conflict in Ukraine, the declaration highlights the immense human suffering and the negative impact on global food and energy security, supply chains, macro-financial stability, inflation, and economic growth. It acknowledges that these consequences have complicated the policy environment, particularly for developing and least-developed countries still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.
In light of the complexities surrounding the Ukraine situation, the G20 leaders commit to working together to mitigate the adverse effects on the global economy. They also express support for initiatives that promote a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine, aligning with the principles of the UN Charter.
Sustainable Growth and the 2030 Agenda
The declaration acknowledges that progress towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is off-track, with only 12 percent of the targets on course to be met by 2030. It emphasizes the importance of taking collective action to accelerate progress on the SDGs and shape a better future for all.
To expedite progress on the SDGs, G20 leaders commit to implementing the 2023 Action Plan to Accelerate Progress on the SDGs. They emphasize the role of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and data advances in achieving these goals and endorse principles for harnessing data for development.
Financial support is crucial for the SDGs, and the declaration calls upon developed countries to fulfill their Official Development Assistance (ODA) commitments and contribute to the financing needs of developing countries. Additionally, the importance of tourism and culture as drivers of sustainable socio-economic development is recognized, and the declaration highlights the Goa Roadmap for Tourism as a means to achieve the SDGs.
Building Resilience and Reducing Disaster Risk
The G20 leaders pledge support for enhancing the resilience of infrastructure systems, particularly in developing countries, to address the challenges posed by climate change and disasters. They welcome initiatives like the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction.
Empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
Recognizing that start-ups and MSMEs are vital for economic growth, the declaration acknowledges their role in innovation and job creation. It commends India’s efforts in this regard and endorses the Jaipur Call for Action, which focuses on enhancing MSMEs’ access to information and promoting their integration into international trade.
Addressing Global Debt and Digital Economy
The declaration underscores the importance of addressing global debt vulnerabilities, especially in low and middle-income countries, in a comprehensive manner. It encourages efforts through the Global Sovereign Debt Roundtable to facilitate effective debt treatments.
The leaders acknowledge the significance of the digital economy and commit to building an inclusive, secure, and non-discriminatory digital ecosystem. They endorse principles and toolkits to support businesses and promote cyber education and awareness, highlighting the importance of digital literacy and skills.
International Taxation and Gender Equality
G20 leaders reaffirm their commitment to a fair international tax system and progress on the two-pillar international tax package. They also emphasize the importance of gender equality, especially in education and the workforce. The declaration calls for the elimination of gender-based violence, gender stereotypes, and biases.
Countering Terrorism and Money Laundering
In the fight against terrorism, the G20 nations strongly condemn all acts of terrorism, particularly those targeting critical infrastructure. They stress the importance of effective counterterrorism measures while upholding human rights. The declaration highlights the need for international cooperation to deny terrorist groups safe havens and support networks.
In conclusion, the G20 Summit Declaration underscores the critical global challenges facing the world today. It reaffirms the commitment of G20 nations to addressing these issues collectively, offering solutions, and promoting peace, sustainability, and inclusivity on a global scale.
In conclusion, the G20 Summit Declaration reaffirms the importance of upholding territorial integrity, rejecting the use of force and nuclear weapons. It recognizes the severe consequences of the Ukraine conflict, which have affected global food and energy security, supply chains, and economic stability. The G20 leaders commit to mitigating these impacts and supporting initiatives for lasting peace in Ukraine.
Regarding sustainable growth and the SDGs, the declaration acknowledges that progress is lagging, with only 12% of targets on track. The G20 pledges to accelerate SDG progress through digital transformation and financial support. It also highlights the role of tourism and culture in achieving these goals.
Overall, the document emphasizes diplomacy, dialogue, and international cooperation to address global challenges and promote peace, sustainability, and inclusive development.
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