A resounding tribute to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s global diplomacy came from South African High Commissioner Anil Sooklal in New Delhi on Wednesday. He commended India’s tireless representation of developing countries’ interests worldwide and PM Modi’s pioneering efforts, terming them unmatched in scope.
During an in-depth interview, Sooklal recounted India’s historic leadership in the Global South, from pre-independence times onward. India’s 2023 G20 stewardship exemplified this, with PM Modi’s personal drive securing the African Union’s enduring G20 seat. ‘Africa, South Africa included, greatly admired India’s resolute stance,’ he shared.
Now a full-fledged permanent member, the African Union robustly advances continental priorities in G20 discussions. India’s presidency also birthed the Voice of the Global South Summit—twice under PM Modi’s chairmanship—focusing minds on core issues and urging collective resolutions.
‘India leads vocally and innovates proactively on Global South fronts,’ Sooklal observed. He spotlighted PM Modi’s commanding presence at international summits like the G20, bolstered by India’s economic feats: GDP more than doubled, fourth-largest economy status, poverty reduction for millions, and strong engagements in BRICS and beyond. These efforts are defining a multipolar global landscape.
The Global South regards PM Modi as a potent decision-maker, per the seasoned diplomat. On Bangladesh, Sooklal hoped for a return to elected governance via fair elections. ‘Democracy underpins our societies,’ he asserted, praising the interim government’s electoral plans and wishing for tranquility, as stability there aids the neighborhood and international community alike.