India is not only a growing economy but it is also a country which is known for hosting people with utmost respect, care and love.
We believe in the idea of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ and therefore when it comes to hosting world leaders, we remain upfront and 2023 was no exception. There are many leaders who visited India in 2023. From Prime Ministers, Presidents to Directors, the leaders have found India to be a country worth visiting in 2023.
Kristalin Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), arrived in Delhi to emphasize the importance of economic stability and international financial cooperation. As the world grapples with economic uncertainty, Georgieva's insights and expertise will be crucial in shaping policies that foster sustainable development.
It was also heartwarming to see President Biden in India along with his wife. Even after being diagnosed with covid-19, the President of the United States took his time to get well soon and visited the country. During his visit, President Biden adhered to COVID-19 guidelines, emphasizing the importance of safety and health.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s arrival in India is well noted by social media and news channels. As the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni underscored the global nature of the challenges being discussed, Europe's commitment to collaboration with other nations demonstrates its commitment to fostering international cooperation and addressing shared issues. Her trip to India was well covered and she was perhaps the most talked about world leader in the country.
A comprehensive and inclusive global agenda was crafted by Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The summit's overarching goals are aligned with the OECD's focus on policies that improve economic and social well-being around the world.
It was a significant entrance for Nigeria's President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the first Head of Delegation to land in Delhi for G20 summit held. In addition to being welcomed by Singh Baghel, the Minister of Health, Tinubu's presence underscored the importance of the summit, which focused on economic cooperation and development strategies. Nigeria plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the continent as one of Africa's largest economies.
As Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala arrived at the summit, adding weight to the agenda. In accordance with the WTO's mandate to regulate international trade and ensure fairness in global commerce, her presence signals her commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable economic growth.
It was also enhanced by the unique perspectives of Raquel Buenrostro Sánchez, Mexican Economy Minister, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Mauritius Prime Minister, and Charles Michel, President of the European Council. Their presence reflects the diversity of leaders converging in India, demonstrating the urgency and commitment to finding collaborative solutions that transcend borders.
During recent months, India has hosted notable visits from Tanzania, Malta, the Dominican Republic, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Cambodia, solidifying its position as a key diplomatic center beyond the G20 Summit. As a result of these interactions, bilateral relations have been strengthened and a sense of global unity has been fostered, highlighting the importance of India as a diplomatic hub.
As world leaders gather in India, the eyes of the world are eagerly watching, anticipating both effective resolutions and a powerful display of collaborative efforts to create a better future for all. The obstacles ahead are formidable, but so is the unwavering resolve of nations to find common ground and build a stronger and more sustainable world.
The upcoming days in New Delhi present a golden opportunity for a pivotal moment in the ongoing narrative of international cooperation, shaping global affairs for generations to come.