‘We must listen to voice of Global South’

Advertisement

Modi urges reforms in global governance institutions to represent the developing world better…reports Asian Lite News

Highlighting the importance of inclusivity, Modi on Wednesday called upon the countries at the World Governments Summit (WGS) in Dubai, to amplify the voices and priorities of the Global South in global decision-making processes.

He urged for reforms in global governance institutions to better representation of the developing world.

“Today, when we are transforming our country, shouldn’t there be reform in the Global Governance Institutions as well? We have to promote the concerns of the developing world and the participation of the Global South in global decision-making,” Modi said.

He said that it is important to prioritise national sovereignty and also keep the dignity of international law. “We have to listen to the voice of the Global South, we have to bring forward their priorities, we have to help the needy countries…,” he said.

He also said that by bringing reforms, the nations will not only be able to tackle challenges but also foster a global bond and strengthen cooperation. “We will have to create global prototypes for emerging challenges like AI–Artificial Intelligence and cryptocurrency, and cybercrime. We will have to give priority to our national sovereignty and also keep the dignity of international law,” he added.

He also called for international collaboration and called for a “global protocol” to tackle emerging issues like artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, and cybercrime.

Lauding UAE’s advancement in every fora, especially Dubai, Modi said that the way it is “becoming the global epicentre of global economy, commerce and technology is a big thing…”

Meanwhile, Modi also emphasised that his biggest principle has been “minimum government, maximum governance” and noted that it is the government’s job to ensure minimal government interference in people’s lives.

“My biggest principle has been ‘Minimum government, maximum governance’. I have always emphasised creating an environment in which a sense of enterprise and energy in citizens grows. I believe that it is the job of the government to ensure that government interference in people’s lives is minimal,” he said.

The Prime Minister said people have trust in his government’s intent and commitment. “This happened because we have given priority to people’s aspirations. We are sensitive to people’s needs. We have focused on fulfilling people’s needs and dreams. Along with the top-down and bottom-up approaches, we have also moved with the whole of society approach,” he said.

Noting that challenges of the previous century, including food, health, water and energy security, are increasing despite the progress in technology, he said that the world needs governments that are inclusive and take everyone along.

Modi highlighted poverty reduction programs, stating, “250 million people were lifted out of poverty,” showcasing India’s commitment to social upliftment. He stressed the importance of digital identity, stating, “130 crore citizens have their own digital IDs, connected banks and mobiles,” enabling efficient direct benefit transfers and saving billions of dollars through reduced corruption.

Concluding his address, PM Modi declared, “India shows the world the way forward- a pro-people approach that also protects the environment.” His speech resonated with a message of inclusive, sustainable, and transparent governance, positioning India as a leader on the world stage.

Prime Minister elaborated on the leadership role played by India as the chair of G-20 last year, on a wide range of issues and challenges facing the world. In this context, he highlighted the efforts made by India to bring development concerns facing the Global South to the centre-stage of global discourse. Calling for reform of multilateral institutions, he pushed for greater voice for the Global South in its decision making. India, he stressed, will continue to contribute to global progress based on its role as a “Vishwa Bandhu”.

Modi underscored the significance of the World Government Summit, urging global leaders to embrace “smart, technology-driven, transparent, and environmentally sustainable governance” to navigate pressing challenges. This summit serves as a critical platform for fostering collective action and shaping a more resilient and equitable future for all.His message resonated with the spirit of “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” urging global unity and cooperation to navigate the ethical and practical challenges presented by these innovations.

Modi participated in the World Government Summit 2024 in Dubai as a Guest of Honour and delivered a special keynote address at the Summit. Modi arrived in UAE on Tuesday on the first leg of his two-day visit.

On February 13, Modi addressed the Indian community in the UAE at ‘Ahlan Modi’, an event organised in his honour by the Indian community in the UAE. The event drew participation from Indian diaspora from across the seven Emirates and included Indians from all communities.

In his address, Modi shared his thoughts on the contribution made by the Indian diaspora to further strengthening bilateral relations between India and the UAE. He thanked the rulers and the Government of the UAE for their graciousness and care shown towards the Indian community. In particular, he mentioned the special care taken during difficult Covid times when Indian diaspora was provided all possible assistance.

ALSO READ: PM Modi inaugurates first Hindu temple in UAE

[mc4wp_form id=""]

Advertisement