India’s Green Vision Shines at the 9th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit
On October 13, 2023, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is poised to inaugurate the 9th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit (P20) at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi. This event, hosted by the Parliament of India, is a crucial component of India’s G20 Presidency, and it carries the theme “Parliaments for One Earth, One Family, One Future.” The summit is set to bring together Speakers of Parliament from G20 member countries and invitee nations, marking a notable moment for global parliamentary cooperation. Moreover, this edition witnesses the participation of the Pan-African Parliament for the first time, following the African Union’s entry into the G20 during the New Delhi G20 Leaders’ Summit on September 9-10, 2023.
The summit’s agenda comprises four focal themes, reflecting the pressing challenges faced by our interconnected world:
Transformation in People’s Lives through Public Digital Platforms: In a digital age, leveraging public digital platforms is key to enhancing the quality of life for citizens. This topic explores the potential of technology to improve public services, make them more accessible, and bring about meaningful societal advancement.
Women-led Development: Recognizing the pivotal role of women in development, this theme emphasizes empowering and engaging women in various sectors to drive sustainable growth. Women’s participation is critical for achieving balanced and inclusive development.
Accelerating SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals): In this session, participants will delve into strategies to expedite progress toward the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. These goals are vital for addressing global challenges, such as poverty, climate change, and inequality.
Sustainable Energy Transition: As the world grapples with environmental concerns, the focus on sustainable energy transition is pivotal. This discussion will explore the transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, which is integral to global development and reducing carbon emissions.
A noteworthy pre-summit event, the Parliamentary Forum on LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), is scheduled for October 12, 2023. This forum will deliberate on initiatives aimed at promoting a greener and more sustainable future that lives in harmony with nature. It underlines the global recognition of the need for environmentally responsible practices in all aspects of life.
The 9th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit carries significant implications. It is a forum for parliamentary leaders to converge and discuss pressing global issues, fostering dialogue and cooperation to address shared challenges. India’s choice of themes, especially the emphasis on environmental sustainability and gender equality, reflects the country’s commitment to a more inclusive and ecologically responsible world.
While this summit serves as a platform for fruitful discussions and international cooperation, it also highlights India’s dedication to addressing global issues in a holistic and responsible manner. As the world faces complex challenges such as climate change and socio-economic disparities, the 9th P20 Summit presents an opportunity for nations to come together, share ideas, and collaborate to build a future that is both environmentally sustainable and marked by greater equity for everyone.