Modi pitches trust-based global partnerships at G7, urging shift from aid to equality as India positions itself as a bridge between developed nations and the Global South, reports Asian Lite News Desk
Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the G7 platform in France to push for a shift in global engagement—from transactional aid models to partnerships rooted in trust, equality and shared responsibility—positioning India as a key voice for the Global South in an increasingly fragmented world order.
Addressing the outreach session on “Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity” at the G7 Summit in Evian, Modi argued that enduring international cooperation must be anchored in credibility and mutual respect, particularly as global challenges—from climate change to supply chain disruptions—grow more complex and interconnected. He emphasised that “trust” should be the cornerstone of modern alliances, calling for a transition away from traditional donor-recipient frameworks towards collaborative partnerships based on solidarity and equality.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Modi reiterated New Delhi’s long-standing “humanity first” approach to global engagement, pointing to a series of international initiatives spearheaded or supported by India. These include the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Global Biofuel Alliance and the Mission LiFE sustainability campaign. He also referenced the “Ek Ped Maa ke Naam” environmental initiative, framing these efforts as practical extensions of India’s civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the idea that the world is one family.
Modi’s remarks come at a time when geopolitical tensions and economic realignments have placed renewed emphasis on trusted partnerships, particularly among emerging economies seeking a greater voice in global governance. Indian officials highlighted that New Delhi continues to advocate for inclusive and sustainable development, with a focus on amplifying the priorities of developing nations.
The Prime Minister was received warmly by French President Emmanuel Macron upon arrival in Evian, with the two leaders sharing a brief embrace ahead of the session. The gathering also brought together US President Donald Trump and other leaders from G7 member states, partner countries and major multilateral institutions including the World Bank and the African Development Bank.
On the sidelines, Modi and Trump exchanged greetings and held a short interaction before the working session. A more detailed bilateral meeting between the two leaders is scheduled, with discussions expected to cover economic growth, resilient supply chains, artificial intelligence, investment flows and global security concerns. The meeting will mark their first formal bilateral engagement since India’s “Operation Sindoor” last year, which targeted militant infrastructure in Pakistan.
In a message posted after landing in France, Modi said he looked forward to engaging with global leaders and exchanging views on pressing international issues, reiterating India’s commitment to advancing “collective efforts for a more sustainable and prosperous planet”.
India is attending the summit as an invited partner country, marking its 13th participation in the G7 process and Modi’s seventh consecutive appearance. The outreach sessions on June 16 and 17 are focused on revitalising international cooperation, promoting balanced economic growth and ensuring the responsible deployment of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
