'Need to adopt human-centric approach': PM Modi kicks off G20 with emphasis on global issues

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday commenced the two-day G20 Summit being held at the Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. In his opening remarks, he called for a human-centric approach to address the global challenges.

He emphasised the significance of the 21st century in finding new solutions to old challenges. PM Modi said that there is a need to adopt a human-centric approach to address global challenges and overcome trust deficits caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflicts.

"The 21st century is an important time to show the world a new direction. This is the time when old problems are seeking new solutions from us and that is why we should move ahead fulfilling our responsibilities with a human-centric approach," said the PM.


He asserted that the war in Ukraine has resulted in a trust deficit at the global level and called on all the G20 summit leaders to work together.

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“Today, as the president of G 20, India calls upon the world together to transform the global trust deficit into one of trust and reliance. This is the time for all of us to move together. In this time, the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas' can be the torchbearer for us,” PM Modi said.

He added, “Be it the divide between North and South, the distance between East and West, management of food and fuel, terrorism, cyber security, health, energy or water security, we will have to find a solid solution to this for future generations."

In a significant development, PM Modi said that African Union has been made a permanent member of the Group of 20 and invited the AU, represented by Chairperson Azali Assoumani, to take a seat at the table of G20 leaders as a permanent member.

At the start of his address, PM Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives in Morocco, which was hit by an earthquake early this morning.

He said, "Before we start the proceedings of G20, I want to express my condolences over the loss of lives due to an earthquake in Morocco. We pray that all injured recover at the earliest. India is ready to offer all possible assistance to Morocco in this difficult time."

India assumed the G20 presidency on December 1 last year and about 200 meetings related to G20 were organized in 60 cities across the country.

The 18th G20 Summit is a culmination of all the G20 processes and meetings held throughout the year among ministers, senior officials, and civil societies.

The summit is being attended by more than 30 heads of state and top officials from the European Union and invited guest countries and 14 heads of international organisations.

(With inputs from ANI)