In a strong diplomatic message ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the G7 Summit in Canada, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that it is time for India to “make its presence felt” and to be a “robust voice for the Global South” at global platforms. His statement comes as India continues to assert its leadership role among developing nations and push for reforms in global governance.
Speaking at a high-level strategic forum on Saturday, Jaishankar highlighted India’s evolving foreign policy vision, stating, “The Global South is no longer on the periphery of world affairs. It is a critical stakeholder, and India must represent its aspirations in a world increasingly shaped by multipolarity and interdependence.”
Jaishankar underlined that the upcoming G7 Summit, to be attended by PM Modi on his first overseas trip after the third consecutive electoral victory, presents an “opportunity to push for equitable solutions” in areas like climate action, digital infrastructure, and global debt relief — all vital concerns of the developing world.
India as a Bridge Between North and South
Positioning India as a bridge between the developed and developing world, Jaishankar stated, “India’s experience, scale, and success in inclusive development make it uniquely placed to advocate for fairer rules and stronger global partnerships.” He pointed to India’s G20 presidency in 2023 as a turning point where New Delhi brought voices from the Global South to the heart of global economic decision-making.
“From vaccine equity to debt restructuring and food security, India has not just spoken for the Global South — we have delivered,” he added.
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Call for Reform in Global Institutions
Reiterating the call for reform in global institutions like the United Nations and the International Monetary Fund, Jaishankar said these bodies “must reflect the realities of the 21st century” and warned against “an outdated status quo that marginalizes billions.”
India, he said, will use the G7 forum to reinforce the demand for a greater voice for developing countries, especially in decision-making on global crises such as climate finance and AI regulation.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
With the G7 comprising some of India’s key strategic partners — including the US, UK, France, Germany, and Japan — New Delhi also aims to deepen bilateral ties and explore cooperation on technology, energy transition, and defense.
India’s participation, though not a member of the G7, has increasingly become symbolic of its rising diplomatic stature and soft power. Jaishankar noted that India is seen as a “credible partner” that balances values with interests, and development with sustainability.
Looking Ahead
As PM Modi heads to Canada for the G7 Leaders’ Summit, all eyes will be on how India leverages this high-profile stage to advance its global agenda. Jaishankar’s remarks make it clear: India’s role is no longer limited to regional diplomacy — it is actively shaping global conversations for a fairer and more inclusive future.
“Our time is now,” Jaishankar concluded. “The world is watching, and we must speak — not just for ourselves, but for the billions whose voices are often ignored.”