The Reason Why China Objected To Sanskrit Phrase 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' In G20 Papers

China has reportedly raised objection to a Sanskrit phrase which was mentioned in the G20 documents issued last month, The Economic Times reported.

The mention of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' in the Indian presidency's G20 theme in the Energy Ministers' Outcome document and Chair's Summary on Energy Transitions' has not gone well with China. It is a Sanskrit phrase from the Maha Upanishad.

'Vasudeva Kutumbakam' Meaning?
'Vasudeva Kutumbakam' is commonly interpreted as "the world is one family." Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been using the said adage in his speeches in India and abroad. It is also inscribed at the entrance of India's parliamentary building.

Then why has China raised objection to such a meaningful word?
China opposed the usage of the phrase in the G20 meeting outcome document adopted on July 22 in Goa as it is a Sanskrit adage which is not recognised by the United Nations.

Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish are the six official languages of the UN. Reportedly, China was the lone country which raised objections to the phrase, while other nations did not find anything wrong in its usage. Several of these nations highlighted that, as the current Chair of the G20, India has the right to take a call on such matters.

However, China refused to agree on the inclusion of the Sanskrit phrase.

Sources within the G20 Secretariat told the website that the Chinese delegation expressed opposition to formally embracing or endorsing this as a concept but did not object to its mention when presented in a relevant context.

The report points out that the final G20 document only carried the English translation of the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam - 'One Earth, One Family, One Future'. However, the Sanskrit adage has been retained in the logo and letterhead of each document.

According to the G20 website, the theme of India's G20 Presidency - 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' or 'One Earth · One Family · One Future' - affirms the value of all life - human, animal, plant, and microorganisms - and their interconnectedness on the planet Earth and in the wider universe.

However, the government has not commented on the issue.