Why is News :
At the G7 Outreach Summit 2025 in Canada, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s role as the voice of the Global South, advocating for equitable global governance amid geopolitical tensions such as the Russia-Ukraine war and West Asia unrest. The summit also witnessed sharp divergences, including U.S. President Donald Trump’s early exit and call to expand G7 into a potential G9.
G7 Grouping
G7 (Group of Seven): Informal bloc of seven advanced economies — Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, UK, and USA.
European Union (EU): Also participates, represented by Presidents of the European Council and European Commission.
Founded: In 1975, in response to the oil crisis.G8 Phase: Russia joined in 1998; suspended in 2014 after the Crimea annexation, reverting to G7.
Mandate & Agenda Evolution
- Original Focus: Global economic development.
- Now Covers:
- Foreign and security policy
- International trade
- Climate change
- Development and global crises
Governance & Functioning
- No permanent secretariat or formal structure
- Rotating Presidency: Each member holds presidency for one calendar year
- EU does not hold presidency
- G7 Summit:
- Attended by Heads of State/Government, EU reps, and invited guests
- Concludes with a joint communiqué
- Decision-making: By consensus
- Influence: G7 declarations shape global governance and policymaking
India’s Position at G7 2025
Championing the Global South
- India highlighted how conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia are exacerbating the energy and food crisis in developing countries.
- PM Modi’s address focused on equitable development, climate finance, and debt restructuring for the Global South.
Bilateral Diplomacy in Focus
- Held meetings with leaders of Germany, Canada, Ukraine, and Italy.
Notable meetings:
- With Ukrainian President Zelenskyy – a crucial engagement ahead of Russian President Putin’s upcoming visit to India.
- With Mexico and South Korea, signaling India’s expanding engagement with Latin America and East Asia.
Mediation and Dialogue
- Reiterated India’s support for negotiated settlements in both the Russia-Ukraine war and Israel-Iran tensions, aligning with India’s consistent non-alignment and multilateral dialogue approach.
Strategic Autonomy in Practice
- India’s participation, despite differing stances on Russia, reinforces its position as a balancing power with independent foreign policy choices.
Global Developments at G7 with Strategic Implications
U.S. President Trump’s Exit:
- Left the summit prematurely amid reports of military mobilization in the Gulf.
- Called for a G9 with Russia and China included, questioning the decision to exclude Russia post-Crimea.
Implications:
- Reflects growing fractures within G7 over how to handle global crises.
- Highlights India’s increasing importance as a stabilizing voice in turbulent geopolitics.
Why It Matters for India
Platform to Shape Global Narratives:
- India used the G7 platform to amplify the developmental concerns of emerging economies.
Geopolitical Leverage:
- India’s balancing act between Russia, Ukraine, and the West boosts its credibility as a neutral global player.
- PM Modi’s interactions at G7 lay the ground for upcoming India-Russia Annual Summit and broader South–South Cooperation.
Strategic Positioning in Multilateralism:
- India’s G20 Presidency experience and outreach on climate justice, tech equity, and trade reforms provide continuity at G7.
Challenges & Opportunities
Challenges:
- Balancing between Russia (defence ties) and Western economies (trade, tech partnerships).
- Avoiding being drawn into bloc politics, especially amid tensions in Europe and the Indo-Pacific.
Opportunities:
- Leading voice for reforming global financial institutions.
- Potential to drive consensus on global digital governance, inclusive climate action, and UN Security Council reforms.
UPSC Relevance :
GS2 – International Relations
GS3 – Economy (Global Trade Disruptions)
GS1 – World Affairs (Impact of Conflicts)
Mains Practice Question
Q. “India’s participation in the G7 as a representative of the Global South reflects its growing influence in reshaping global governance.” Discuss in light of India’s approach to current geopolitical conflicts and multilateral diplomacy.