PM Modi’s Address and Meetings:
- Productive Discussions: PM Modi highlighted the fruitful discussions with global leaders on significant issues. He expressed his appreciation to Italy for their warm hospitality.
- Meeting with PM Meloni: Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni greeted each other with a namaste, reinforcing cultural respect. They discussed enhancing the India-Italy strategic partnership and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean regions.
G7 Outreach Session:
- Focus on AI and Energy: Modi emphasized India’s four key principles for energy—availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability. He advocated for making advanced technology widely accessible to reduce social inequalities.
- Commitment to AI: Modi reiterated India’s commitment to ensuring AI is transparent, fair, secure, accessible, and responsible. He highlighted India’s leadership in promoting global AI cooperation through initiatives like the “AI Mission” and “AI for All.”
India’s Global Commitments:
- Support for the Global South: Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to addressing the priorities of the Global South and highlighted efforts to support Africa through initiatives under its G20 chairmanship.
- Climate Change Initiatives: Modi noted that India is the first country to meet all its COP commitments ahead of time and aims to achieve “Net Zero” by 2070. He mentioned initiatives like “Mission LiFE” and “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.”
Global Issues Discussed at the G7:
- China’s Business Practices: G7 leaders focused on addressing harmful business practices by China, particularly in sectors like electric vehicles, steel, and renewable energy. They emphasized protecting fair market practices rather than hindering China’s economic growth.
- Migration: Leaders agreed to form a coalition to combat people smuggling and reduce illegal migration from Africa. This includes increased cooperation in investigating trafficking networks and seizing assets.
- Ukraine-Russia Conflict: The G7 countries reached a preliminary agreement to offer Ukraine $50 billion in loans supported by interest from frozen Russian assets. They pledged additional sanctions on Russia and emphasized support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
- Abortion Rights: The G7 summit statement did not include the term “abortion,” reflecting disagreements among leaders, especially given Italy’s stance on the issue. The United States and France opposed attempts to weaken the language on women’s rights.
Pope Francis’s Appearance:
- Discussion on AI: Pope Francis addressed the summit, highlighting both the exciting potential and ethical concerns of AI. He noted that while AI could enhance access to knowledge, it also risks exacerbating inequalities between nations and social classes.