Friends,

I would like to once again congratulate my friend President Jokowi. He has given efficient leadership to the G-20 even in these difficult times. And I also congratulate the G-20 community today for the adoption of the Bali Declaration. India will strive to take forward Indonesia’s commendable initiatives during its G-20 Presidency. It is a very auspicious coincidence for India that we are assuming the responsibility of the G-20 Presidency in this holy island of Bali. India and Bali have an age-old relationship.

Excellencies,

India is taking charge of the G-20 at a time when the world is simultaneously grappling with geopolitical tensions, economic slowdown, rising food and energy prices, and the long-term ill effects of the pandemic. At such a time, the world is looking at the G-20 with hope. Today, I want to assure you that India’s G-20 presidency will be inclusive, ambitious, decisive, and action-oriented.

Excellencies,

Over the next one year, we will strive to ensure that the G-20 acts as a global prime mover to envision new ideas and accelerate collective action. The sense of ownership over natural resources is giving rise to conflict today and has become the main cause of the plight of the environment. For the safe future of the planet, the sense of trusteeship is the solution. LiFE i.e. ‘Lifestyle for Environment’ campaign can make a big contribution to this. Its purpose is to make sustainable lifestyles a mass movement.

Excellencies,

The need today is that the benefits of development are universal and all-inclusive. We have to extend the benefits of development to all human beings with compassion and solidarity. Global development is not possible without women’s participation. We have to maintain priority on women-led development even in our G-20 agenda. Without peace and security, our future generations will not be able to take advantage of economic growth or technological innovation. The G-20 has to convey a strong message in favour of peace and harmony. All these priorities are fully embodied in the theme of India’s G-20 Chairmanship – “One Earth, One Family, One Future”.

Excellencies,

It is a proud occasion for every Indian to assume the G-20 Presidency. We will organize G-20 meetings in different cities and states of our country. Our guests will get a full experience of India’s amazing diversity, inclusive traditions, and cultural richness. We wish that all of you will participate in this unique celebration in India, the ‘Mother of Democracy’. Together, we will make the G-20, a catalyst for global change.

Thank you very much!