VOIWORLD
Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Johannesburg on Friday for a three-day visit to attend the 20th G20 Leaders’ Summit. Here are 10 Things to Know
1 : Fourth consecutive G20 meeting hosted by the Global South
Summit is the fourth consecutive G20 meeting hosted by the Global South, following Indonesia, India, and Brazil’s presidencies. Prior to South Africa, the G20 presidencies were held by Brazil (2024), India (2023) and Indonesia (2022).
2. First G20 summit on African soil
This is the first time a G20 Leaders’ Summit is being held on the African continent, marking a historic milestone for the grouping.
3. Fourth consecutive G20 hosted by the Global South
South Africa follows Indonesia (2022), India (2023) and Brazil (2024), making it the fourth consecutive G20 summit led by Global South economies.
4. Modi’s fourth visit to South Africa
This visit marks PM Modi’s fourth official trip to South Africa, including his bilateral visit in 2016 and BRICS summits in 2018 and 2023.
5. Summit dates
The G20 summit will take place from November 21 to 23 in Johannesburg.
6. Focus on Global South priorities
According to MEA Secretary (ER) Sudhakar Dalela, discussions will highlight themes crucial to the Global South, continuing the momentum from previous presidencies.
7. South Africa’s presidency theme
This year’s G20 theme is “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”, with priority areas identified across various tracks of cooperation.
8. African Union’s key role
The African Union—made a permanent G20 member during India’s 2023 presidency—will have a significant role in shaping discussions this year.
9. India–South Africa cooperation
Secretary Dalela noted that India and South Africa share strong democratic values, with cooperation built on political ties, economic engagement, and multilateral coordination.
10. Bilateral meetings planned on sidelines
India is in the process of organising key bilateral engagements for PM Modi during the summit, though details are yet to be announced.
