Modi Boosts India-Global Ties at G20 Sidelines in Johannesburg
Modi Boosts India-Global Ties at G20 Sidelines in Johannesburg
Modi meets UK, Malaysia, France and more on the G20 sidelines in Johannesburg, reinforcing partnerships aimed at global progress.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent the sidelines of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg engaging with a slate of world leaders, signaling a concerted push to deepen ties across continents. He met Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and French President Emmanuel Macron, among others, and used social media to highlight the energy and momentum in these growing partnerships. Modi said the India–UK partnership is gaining fresh energy and vowed to drive it forward across multiple domains. He also stressed that cooperation with Malaysia would broaden bilateral collaboration, including diversification of trade and investment.
In what observers called a sign of growing alignment, Modi had a productive exchange with Korea’s President Lee Jae-myung, pointing to the “strong momentum” in their Special Strategic Partnership and a shared aim to deepen economic and investment linkages. After his discussions with Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Modi noted ongoing cooperation to boost trade and cultural ties for the benefit of people in both nations. He also spoke with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in what he described as a very productive conversation that touched on global challenges and opportunities.
Ahead of the main session, Modi engaged with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, sharing a candid moment and a warm handshake that underscored the warmth of bilateral ties even as leaders navigated a busy summit schedule. Reports from the sidelines also highlighted a vibrant welcome from the Indian diaspora and a celebratory cultural performance, signaling India’s expanding role on the global stage.
These interactions reflect Modi’s broader approach at the summit: reinforcing existing partnerships, exploring new avenues for cooperation, and projecting India as a proactive, globally engaged player capable of shaping debates on trade, security, and sustainable development. By weaving together economic linkages with cultural and strategic ties, the prime minister aims to advance India’s interests while contributing to a broader, more inclusive international agenda.
Cover image source: PM Modi holds candid talks with Italy's Meloni, meets world leaders at G20 summit | Video 🔗
