Warm Diplomacy: Modi, Meloni & Lula Shine at G20

The G20 Summit in Johannesburg was marked by notable personal diplomacy, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italy’s PM Giorgia Meloni engaging in a very public, cheerful conversation. Their shared laughter and warm exchanges were a highlight during the summit’s opening proceedings, showcasing a friendly rapport. Beyond his interaction with Meloni, PM Modi was seen exchanging warm hugs with fellow leaders, including a notable moment with Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. These personal connections often reflect the broader geopolitical landscape. Modi’s presence in South Africa was preceded by a colorful reception, including traditional performances and a diaspora event titled ‘Rhythms of a United India,’ which featured folk dances from across India. During the summit’s discussions on inclusive growth, PM Modi urged a recalibration of global development priorities, stressing models that are both sustainable and draw from deep-rooted cultural insights. He proposed ‘Integral Humanism’ as a path to more equitable progress and outlined significant initiatives: a repository for traditional knowledge, a comprehensive skills development program for Africa, and a joint strategy to disrupt the intertwined networks of drug trafficking and terrorism.