India's Global South Summit: China And Pakistan Left Out, Key Issues Discussed

India hosted the third edition of the Voice of Global South Summit virtually on Saturday, with participation from leaders and ministers representing 123 countries.

Notably, China and Pakistan were absent from this year's summit, which focused on key challenges facing developing nations.

Photo Credit: PTI

India's Global South Summit: Key Issues Discussed

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the media, highlighting that several countries raised concerns about ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. The discussions included calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and resumption of negotiations, reflecting the summit's focus on humanitarian issues.

Jaishankar clarified that China and Pakistan were not invited to the summit. "Were they invited? The answer is no," he stated. This follows a trend from previous summits, where both countries were also not in attendance. The strained relations between India and these nations are a contributing factor.

The summit saw contributions from 21 leaders and 118 ministers, with discussions spanning digital transformation, trade, health, terrorism, extremism, debt burden, and liquidity challenges, as reported by Hindustan Times. Bangladesh's interim government head, Muhammad Yunus, addressed the upheaval in his country following the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government, as well as broader global issues including geopolitics, climate change, and the impact of COVID-19.

Significant discussions also revolved around the need for reform in the United Nations. Jaishankar emphasized the necessity of reconciling various reform ideas and allowing member states to vote on proposed changes. He criticized the current process, describing it as "unduly and unfairly blocked," as per media reports.

The summit underscored India's growing role and responsibilities on the global stage, particularly concerning the Global South. As India's economic and diplomatic influence expands, the country faces increased expectations to address global challenges and support developing nations.