Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s strategic foresight for the Global South earned glowing reviews from Anil Sooklal, South Africa’s envoy to India, during a Wednesday interview in New Delhi. Sooklal praised India’s persistent global advocacy for emerging economies and PM Modi’s transformative initiatives as truly groundbreaking.
Reflecting on history, Sooklal noted India’s immersion in Global South leadership even before freedom. The pinnacle was India’s 2023 G20 tenure, where PM Modi’s advocacy enshrined the African Union as a permanent member—a development joyously received by South Africa and Africa at large. ‘India kept it front and center,’ he enthused.
This positions the African Union to fully engage on behalf of the continent in G20 proceedings. Adding momentum, PM Modi helmed the inaugural Voice of the Global South Summit twice, galvanizing attention on vital concerns and collaborative fixes.
India emerges as both a powerful advocate and trailblazing problem-solver, Sooklal asserted. PM Modi’s stature amplifies impact at venues like the G20, mirroring India’s ascent: over twofold GDP growth, world’s fourth economy, mass poverty alleviation, and pivotal BRICS/G20 roles crafting multipolarity.
‘He’s a decisive global force in Global South eyes,’ Sooklal concluded. Regarding Bangladesh, the diplomat stressed democratic restoration through elections. Endorsing the interim poll call, he stressed, ‘Democracy is vital,’ and hoped for peace, benefiting locals, the region, and globe.