India’s capital, New Delhi, is gearing up to host the 18th G20 Summit, a significant international event slated for September 9 and 10. This high-profile gathering will unite leaders and delegates from around the world, with representation from over 25 countries.
As one of the largest multilateral summits of its kind, the G20 Summit holds immense diplomatic importance for India. The nation has held the G20 Presidency since December 1 of the previous year, and this summit represents the culmination of a year-long series of G20 meetings and processes. The primary purpose of the G20 Summit, held annually under the leadership of a rotating Presidency, has evolved beyond its initial focus on macroeconomic matters. It now encompasses a broader agenda, addressing topics such as trade, sustainable development, health, agriculture, energy, environment, climate change, and anti-corruption.
Table of contents
The G20 Roster: Who’s In?
The Group of Twenty (G20) is composed of 19 member countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Additionally, the European Union is a member of this influential group. These G20 nations collectively account for about 85% of global GDP, over 75% of worldwide trade, and nearly two-thirds of the world’s population.
The Venue for G20 Summit
The summit will unfold within the state-of-the-art Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre in New Delhi’s Pragati Maidan. This grand facility, sprawling over 123 acres and boasting an investment of approximately ₹2,700 crore, has been meticulously designed to accommodate meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions, establishing itself as India’s premier venue for such gatherings.
Global Leaders and Special Invitations
The G20 Summit in New Delhi is set to welcome a distinguished roster of world leaders, including US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and French President Emmanuel Macron. Russian President Vladimir Putin has opted to send Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his stead, while Premier Li Qiang will represent Chinese President Xi Jinping.
In line with tradition, India has extended special invitations to leaders from countries not part of the G20. These notable invitees include Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, Netherlands Prime Minister Mark Rutte, Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, Spanish President Pedro Sanchez, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed, and Oman Deputy Prime Minister Sayyid Asad Bin Tariq Al Said.
see also – September 8-10: What All Will Be Closed in Delhi for G20
Transportation Adjustments for the Summit
As the G20 Summit approaches, transportation services are undergoing modifications to ensure a seamless event. Over 90 train services will be temporarily cancelled on September 9, with more than 100 facing the same fate on September 10, particularly affecting routes from Delhi to South Haryana. The Delhi-Rewari Express Special and Rewari-Delhi Express Special trains will also be cancelled on September 11.
Furthermore, Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) has received numerous airline requests for flight cancellations. Approximately 80 departing and 80 arriving domestic flights are set to be cancelled over a three-day period, commencing on September 8, in connection with the G20 Summit.
These adjustments to transportation services are essential to accommodate the influx of participants and dignitaries and ensure the smooth execution of this pivotal diplomatic event in New Delhi.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the G20 Summit in New Delhi promises to be a momentous diplomatic gathering of global leaders. With a grand venue and key participants, it sets the stage for crucial discussions and collaborations on the world stage. Transportation adjustments are underway to ensure a smooth and successful event.
