PM Modi Empowers Global South: A Historic Voice Finally Heard

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the growing significance of the Global South, highlighting that while it has always existed geographically, it is now gaining a stronger voice due to concerted efforts. During the inaugural session of the 2nd Voice of Global South Summit, PM Modi stated, “The Global South has always existed geographically, but it is now finding its voice, and this is a result of collaborative efforts. We comprise over 100 countries, but our priorities are aligned.”

“At the G20 Summit last year, our focus was on development by, for, and of the people…,” PM Modi remarked. The 2nd Voice of Global South Summit is being held virtually. The Prime Minister also pointed out that the issue of the Global South was included in the New Delhi G20 Declaration and received the backing of global leaders at the G20 Leaders’ Summit held in New Delhi in September.

“…In January of this year, India hosted the inaugural Voice of the Global South Summit. In over 200 G20 meetings held across various Indian states, we prioritized the concerns of the Global South,” the Prime Minister stated in his opening remarks at the 2nd Voice of Global South Summit.

“I can’t forget that momentous occasion when, thanks to India’s efforts, the African Union gained permanent membership in the G20…” PM Modi added. As India prepares to host the Artificial Global Partnership Summit next month, the Prime Minister elaborated on artificial intelligence (AI) and emphasized India’s belief that new technologies should not exacerbate the divide between the Global North and the Global South.

During the session, PM Modi stated, “India believes that new technologies should not widen the gap between the Global North and the Global South. In the era of Artificial Intelligence, it is imperative that technology be used responsibly. To further promote this, India will organize the Artificial Global Partnership Summit next month…” The 2023 Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) summit will be held from December 12 to 14 in New Delhi. This summit will explore various crucial aspects of AI, including responsible AI, data governance, the future of work, innovation, and commercialization.

The 2nd VOGSS (Voice of Global South Summit) aims to share with Global South countries the key outcomes achieved in various G20 meetings during India’s Presidency. The challenges posed by global developments are also likely to be discussed.

Furthermore, the Summit will serve as a platform to discuss ways to maintain the momentum toward our shared aspiration for a more inclusive, representative, and progressive world order. The second VOGSS will be divided into ten sessions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will host the inaugural and closing sessions, which will be held at the Head-of-State/Government level.

The inaugural leaders’ session’s theme is “Together, for Everyone’s Growth, with Everyone’s Trust,” while the closing leaders’ session’s theme is “Global South: Together for One Future,” according to the MEA. India hosted the first-ever virtual Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS) in January of this year. The summit lasted over two days and brought together 125 nations from the Global South for this unique initiative to discuss their goals and perspectives on a shared platform.