Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation in the 20th G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa (21–23 November 2025) was marked by a strong call for responsible innovation, inclusive growth, and reforms in global governance. His message resonated with the summit’s historic setting — the first G20 hosted on African soil — and reflected India’s ambition to lead conversations that matter to both advanced economies and the Global South.
A Historic Summit in Africa
The Johannesburg summit carried symbolic weight. For four consecutive years, the G20 has been steered by Global South nations — Indonesia in 2022, India in 2023, Brazil in 2024, and now South Africa in 2025. Modi’s presence underscored India’s commitment to amplifying the concerns of developing countries. The ceremonial welcome he received, with traditional dances and chants of Vedic mantras, highlighted the cultural diplomacy that India often uses to strengthen ties.
Modi’s Call for Responsible Technology
The standout theme of Modi’s address was Artificial Intelligence governance. He urged leaders to adopt a global compact on AI to prevent misuse, stressing that technology must remain human-centric, inclusive, and open-source. His warning was timely, given rising concerns about disinformation, job displacement, and security risks linked to AI.
India’s own digital journey was presented as a model. From satellite applications to digital payments, Modi highlighted how India has used technology to empower ordinary citizens. The message was clear: innovation should not be driven solely by profit but should serve humanity.
Inclusive Growth and Shared Prosperity
Modi also emphasized the need for equitable development. He praised South Africa’s presidency for advancing issues such as food security, skilled migration, women’s empowerment, and digital economy reforms. His vision of “Leaving No One Behind” echoed India’s broader philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”
By linking India’s domestic achievements with global priorities, Modi positioned India as a country capable of offering scalable solutions to common challenges.
Reforming Global Institutions
Another pillar of Modi’s message was the demand for reforms in international institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council. He argued that global governance structures must reflect contemporary realities rather than outdated power balances. This call aligns with India’s long-standing push for fairness and representation in decision-making bodies.
For India, UNSC reform is not just about prestige but about ensuring that the voices of developing nations are heard in matters of peace, security, and economic stability.
Diplomatic Engagements Beyond the Summit
Modi’s visit was not limited to speeches. He engaged in a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings:
- With Australia and Canada, he launched the ACITI Partnership, a trilateral pact focused on innovation and digital cooperation.
- With France, he reaffirmed ties with President Emmanuel Macron, describing the partnership as a “force for global good.”
- With Australia’s PM Anthony Albanese, he discussed regional security and received condolences over the Red Fort terrorist attack.
- At the IBSA Summit, Modi joined leaders from Brazil and South Africa to strengthen South–South cooperation.
These engagements highlight India’s strategy of building coalitions across continents, ensuring its voice resonates not only in the G20 but also in smaller, issue-focused groupings.
Strategic Significance for India
Modi’s G20 message carried multiple layers of strategic importance:
- Global South Leadership: India is positioning itself as a spokesperson for developing nations, advocating for debt relief and fair trade.
- Economic Diplomacy: By pushing for trade facilitation and investment, India seeks to expand its footprint in Africa and beyond.
- Climate Responsibility: India’s emphasis on renewable energy enhances its credibility in climate negotiations.
- Digital Diplomacy: With initiatives like Digital India, Modi showcased India’s ability to provide affordable tech solutions globally.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Geopolitical tensions continue to fracture consensus within the G20. Many African nations face unsustainable debt burdens, requiring more than summit declarations. Climate financing remains a contentious issue, with developing countries demanding greater support from advanced economies.
India must balance its leadership role with its own developmental needs, ensuring that its global ambitions do not overshadow domestic priorities.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s message at the G20 Summit was a blend of responsible innovation, inclusive growth, and institutional reform. His call for a global AI framework stood out as a forward-looking proposal, while his emphasis on fairness and inclusivity reflected India’s ambition to shape global governance.
In Johannesburg, Modi positioned India not just as a participant but as a leader advocating for a more balanced and ethical world order. The symbolism of Africa hosting the summit, combined with India’s active role, signals a new era where the Global South is no longer a passive recipient but an active shaper of global policy.