India’s G20 presidency and South Asia

Bridging the digital divide is important as countries move to digitalise their economies.

India assumed the presidency of the Group of Twenty (G20) on December 1 for a one-year term with the theme of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “One earth, one family, one future”. The theme underlines the interconnectedness of the world that we are living in as the issues are global. The G20 has three distinct tracks that encapsulate wide-ranging issues that are of significance. The financial track would put emphasis on issues like global macro economic policies, infrastructure financing, international financial architecture, financial inclusion, health finance, international taxation and financial sector reforms. There is a Sherpa track focussed on 12 work streams and includes important issues like digital economy, employment, environment and climate, education, energy transition, health, trade and investment, and tourism. The agenda also includes engagement with the private sector, civil society, regional and international bodies. Importance is also given to multilateral reforms for inclusive, equitable and sustainable growth.