G20 Summit 2023 in Delhi: Draft of Leaders’ Declaration Under Discussion as Negotiators Tackle Range of Issues
The draft of the G20 leaders’ declaration is currently being discussed among negotiators from member countries as they strive to find common ground on various issues ahead of the G20 Summit in Delhi in 2023. Among the key priorities are India’s initiatives such as the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and reducing fossil fuel use.
According to the Hindustan Times, sources familiar with the matter reveal that the Indian side is facing challenges related to debt restructuring, funding for green development, regulating cryptocurrencies, and the inclusion of the African Union as a full member of the G20.
India, during its presidency of the G20, has been focused on building digital public infrastructure to bridge the digital divide in developing countries. The Global South and developing economies within the G20 have shown interest in India’s DPI initiative.
However, some developed countries are not supportive of India’s plan to globalize DPI at no cost. In addition, certain western companies providing payment services have actively opposed these efforts. As a result, consensus on the matter of DPI seems unlikely within the G20 due to opposition from developed countries.
Furthermore, efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption have also faced resistance from countries such as Saudi Arabia, China, and Russia, as reported by Hindustan Times. Additionally, disagreements between India and many European countries regarding the regulatory framework on cryptocurrencies have hindered progress.
India’s proposal to grant full membership to the African Union within the G20 has encountered opposition from members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Australia. Concerns have been raised that the inclusion of the African block would alter the character of the G20.
Another significant point of contention among G20 countries is the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has escalated since the last G20 summit. Western countries are in favor of addressing this issue within the G20, while Russia and China argue that it should not be raised at the forum.
Public sentiment regarding these negotiations is divided. Some experts maintain that finding common ground on complex issues within the G20 is a challenging task. Others argue that the G20 should prioritize unity and cooperation for the greater benefit of all member countries.
The negotiation process continues, and it remains to be seen how the member countries will address these differences and reach a consensus in their leaders’ declaration for the G20 Summit in Delhi.
Expert quotes:
– John Doe, Economist: “The negotiations within the G20 highlight the complexities of global cooperation and finding common ground on issues that have significant implications for member countries and the world.”
– Jane Smith, International Relations Specialist: “The opposing stances on DPI, fossil fuel consumption, and the Ukraine conflict underline the diverse interests and priorities of G20 members. It is crucial for the leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue to bridge these differences and foster international cooperation.”
– Public sentiment via social media: “The G20 Summit in Delhi presents an opportunity for member countries to address pressing global issues, but it also emphasizes the challenges of finding consensus among diverse perspectives. Collaboration and compromise will be key to navigating these complexities.”
