Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s three-day visit to South Africa for the historic G20 Summit in Johannesburg is more than a routine diplomatic engagement; it is a powerful assertion of India’s rising global stature and civilisational worldview. The fact that the G20 is meeting on African soil for the first time adds immense symbolic weight.

And it is noteworthy that PM Modi, the leader who championed the African Union’s entry into the G20 during India’s presidency in 2023, is one of the central figures shaping the agenda in Johannesburg.

In his departure statement, the PM reiterated India’s message to the world, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, the timeless ideal that the entire world is one family. Coupled with the practical and forward-looking vision of One Earth, One Family, One Future, this philosophy stands as a stark counter-narrative to decades of Western geopolitical dominance, where aid often came with ideological lectures and conditions. India instead offers partnership, dignity, and mutual respect. For Africa, a continent long sidelined in global decision-making, this approach carries deep resonance.

PM Modi’s post on X further emphasised the significance of the moment. “Will be attending the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. This is a particularly special summit, as it is being held in Africa. Various global issues will be discussed there. Will be meeting various world leaders during the Summit."........

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