The annual Group of 20 Summit is set to take place in New Delhi over the upcoming weekend, bringing together world leaders to discuss key global, economic, and geopolitical issues. As India plays host to this grand world gathering from September 8 to September 10, the city of New Delhi is undergoing a transformation in preparation for this significant event.
Key Highlights of the G20 Summit in New Delhi:
World Leaders in Attendance: The G20, composed of 19 countries and the European Union, includes Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Notable leaders expected to attend include US President Joe Biden, Britain’s Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, among others.
Notable Absences: The summit will notably lack the presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Putin faces an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for “war crimes” in Ukraine, potentially leading to his arrest if he travels abroad. Xi Jinping’s absence remains unexplained.
Venue: The two-day summit will be held at the newly constructed international convention and exhibition center, Bharat Mandapam, located at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. This venue showcases India’s rich heritage and cultural diversity.
Preparations and Hospitality: Top hotels in Delhi, including ITC Maurya, Taj Mansingh, Taj Palace, Hotel Oberoi, and others, are gearing up to host world leaders and foreign delegates. Special bespoke silverware with intricately engraved motifs inspired by India’s cultural heritage has been commissioned for fine dining experiences.
Culinary Delights: Delegates will enjoy a diverse range of Indian cuisine, including Mughlai dishes, South Indian delicacies, chaat, street food, and innovative recipes featuring millets.
Bilateral Talks: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to hold bilateral talks with US President Joe Biden on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. Additionally, a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron is anticipated.
City Transformation: New Delhi is undergoing a makeover with banners featuring iconic heritage sites, murals depicting India’s cultural heritage, and banners bearing the G20 logo and the theme ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (One Earth. One Family. One Future).
Security Arrangements: A stringent security arrangement is in place, with 50,000 personnel, K9 dog squads, and mounted police assisting the Delhi Police. Counter-drone systems have been deployed to prevent potential drone attacks.
Key Agenda Items: Discussions at the G20 Summit are expected to cover climate change, sustainable development, and the economic implications of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a blog post ahead of the event, emphasized the importance of human-centered progress and the need to address the aspirations of developing countries, particularly those in the Global South and Africa, to promote global cooperation and shared prosperity.
As New Delhi prepares to welcome world leaders and delegates, the G20 Summit promises to be a significant forum for addressing pressing global issues and fostering international collaboration.
