Category: Government of India

Your Highnesses,
Excellencies,

Yesterday, we had extensive discussions in the One Earth and One Family sessions. I am satisfied that today the G-20 has become a platform for optimistic efforts regarding the vision of One Earth, One Family, One Future.

We are currently discussing a future where we transcend the concept of Global Village and witness the Global Family becoming a reality. It’s a future where not only the interests of countries are intertwined, but also where hearts are interconnected.

Friends,

I have continuously drawn your attention to Human Centric Vision instead of GDP Centric Approach. Today many countries like India have so much that we are sharing with the whole world.

India has talked about sharing the data of Chandrayaan Mission with everyone in the interest of humanity. This is also a proof of our commitment towards Human Centric Growth.

India has harnessed technology to foster inclusive development and facilitate last-mile delivery. Even in our most remote villages, the small-scale traders are using digital payments.

I am happy that under India’s chairmanship a strong framework for Digital Public Infrastructure has been agreed upon. Similarly, “G20 Principles on Harnessing Data for Development” have also been accepted.

It has also been decided to launch “Data for Development Capacity Building Initiative” for the development of Global South. Formation of Startup 20 engagement group during the Presidency of India is also a big step.

Friends,

Today, we are witnessing an unprecedented scale and speed in new-generation technologies. Artificial Intelligence is such example in front of us. In 2019, the we adopted the “Principles on AI”. Today, we need to take one step further.

I propose that we establish a framework for Responsible Human-Centric AI governance. India will also give its suggestions in this regard. It will be our endeavor that all countries get the benefits of AI in areas like Socio-Economic Development, Global Workforce and R&D.

Friends,

Today, our world is also facing some other burning problems, which are affecting both the present and future of all our countries. We are familiar with the challenges of cyber security and crypto-currency. The field of crypto-currency, has emerged as a new topic for everyone i.e social order, monetary and financial stability. Therefore, we have to develop global standards to regulate crypto-currencies. We have the Basel standards on bank regulation in front of us as a model.

It is imperative that we take concrete steps in this direction as soon as possible. Likewise, global cooperation and a framework for cybersecurity are essential. Terrorism is exploiting new channels and new funding methods from the cyber world, making it a critical issue for the security and prosperity of every nation.

Only when we take care of the security of every country and the sensitivity of every country, the feeling of One Future will be strengthened.

Friends,

To take the world towards a better future, it is necessary that global systems are in accordance with the realities of the present. Today the “United Nations Security Council” is also an example of this. When the UN was established, the world at that time was completely different from today. At that time there were 51 founding members in the UN. Today the number of countries included in the UN is around 200.

Despite this, the permanent members in UNSC are still the same. From then till today the world has changed a lot in every respect. Be it transport, communication, health, education, every sector has been transformed. These new realities should be reflected in our new global structure.

It is a law of nature that individuals and organizations that fail to adapt to changing times inevitably lose their relevance. We must think with an open mind as to what is the reason that many regional forums have come into existence in the past years, and they are also proving to be effective.

Friends,

Today, it is necessary for every global organization to reform to increase its relevance. With this in mind, yesterday we have taken the historic initiative of making the African Union a permanent member of the G-20. Similarly, we will also have to expand the mandate of Multilateral Development Banks. Our decisions in this direction should be immediate and also effective.

Friends,

In a world marked by rapid change, we require not only transformation but also sustainability and stability. Come! Let us pledge that we will take our resolutions of Green Development Pact, Action Plan on SDGs, High level Principles on Anti-corruption, Digital Public Infrastructure, and MDB Reforms to fruition.

Your Highnesses,
Excellencies,

Now I would like to hear your thoughts.

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s Press Statement. Original Press Statement were delivered

Your Highnesses,
Excellencies,

I extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all of you for this special event.

I am delighted to co-chair this event alongside my friend, President Biden.

Today, we all have seen an important and historic agreement being concluded.

In the coming time, it will become an effective medium of economic integration between India, West Asia and Europe.

It will offer a sustainable direction for global connectivity and development.

I congratulate,
His Excellency President Biden,

His Royal Highness, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman,

His Royal Highness, President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed,
His Excellency, President Macron,
His Excellency, Chancellor Scholz,
Her Excellency, Prime Minister Meloni, and
Her Excellency, President von der Leyen,

on this initiative.

Friends,

Robust connectivity and infrastructure serve as the foundational pillars for the advancement of human civilization.

India has accorded utmost priority to these domains in its developmental voyage.

In addition to physical infrastructure, there is an unprecedented scale of investment being directed towards social, digital, and financial infrastructure.

Through these efforts, we are laying the strong foundation of a developed India.

As a reliable partner in many countries of the Global South, we have implemented infrastructure projects in areas such as energy, railways, water, technology parks, and more.

Throughout these endeavors, we have placed a particular emphasis on a demand-driven and transparent approach.

Through PGII, we can make a significant contribution in reducing the infrastructure gap in the countries of the Global South.

Friends,

India does not measure connectivity with regional boundaries.

Increasing connectivity with all regions has been India’s main priority.

We believe that connectivity is a source of increasing not only mutual trade but also mutual trust between different countries.

While promoting connectivity initiatives, it is important to ensure certain fundamental principles are followed, such as:

Adherence to international norms, rules and laws.

Respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries.

Promoting financial viability instead of debt burden.

And to follow all the environmental parameters.

Today, when we are taking such a big initiative of connectivity, we are sowing the seeds of expanding the dreams of the coming generations.

I convey my best wishes to all the leaders on this historic occasion and thank you all very much.

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s Press Statement. Original Press Statement were delivered

Friends,

We have just received a good news. Due to the hard work of our teams and the support of all of you, the New Delhi G20 Leaders’ Summit Declaration has been agreed on.

I propose that we also adopt this Leaders’ declaration. I declare to adopt this declaration.

On this occasion, I would like to congratulate our Minister, Sherpa and all the officials who have put in immense effort to make this worthwhile, and therefore, they all deserve to be congratulated.

Your Highness,
Excellencies,

In our ancient Vedas, which were composed thousands of years ago, it is said – “एको अहम् बहुस्याम्!” This means, “I am one; let me become many.”

We need to move from “I” to “We” for creation, innovation, and viable solutions.

“I” to “We”,
that means thinking of the whole from the self,
the well-being of “us” instead of just “me,”
We have to emphasize on this.

We must connect every class, every country, every society, and every region of the world.

And this is the essence of the One Family concept.

Just like every family has its own support system, we need to build a global support system together.

We should develop the mindset that someone else’s happiness should make us happy, and someone else’s sorrow should make us equally sad.

When we think as One Family, we also keep in mind how to empower each member.

It is in this spirit that India wants to share its every experience with its huge global family.

In India, we have adopted technology as a bridge to make development inclusive and sustainable.

India has developed a new model of inclusion, transparency, and targeted interventions with the JAM Trinity of bank accounts, Aadhar identity and mobile phones.

The World Bank has also acknowledged that the JAM Trinity has achieved a financial inclusion rate in just 6 years which would have taken 47 years to achieve.

Using this model, India has transferred 360 billion dollars directly to the bank accounts of those in need over the past decade.

This has prevented leakage of approximately 33 billion dollars, which is nearly 1.25% of the GDP.

Certainly, this model can be very beneficial for the global family, especially for the Global South.

Friends,

India’s youth, our young talent, is also for the global good, in the form of One Family.

In the times to come, having a large skilled young talent pool is crucial to sustain global growth.

Therefore, we should move towards “Global Skill Mapping.”

This is also a priority for the Global South.

Friends,

While talking about One Family, we must also keep in mind the challenges that lie ahead for our Global Family.

We have seen that when a huge global challenge came in the form of Covid, the global supply chains built over decades were completely exposed.

Under the concept of One Family, today we must build a global supply chain that promotes trust and transparency.

This is our collective responsibility.

We cannot view countries and humanity solely as markets.

We need a sensitive and long-term approach.

We must pay special attention to the capacity building of the developing countries.

Therefore, India’s proposal for a mapping framework will help strengthen the existing supply chain.

To make the global supply chain inclusive, we must also acknowledge the active role of small businesses.

It is essential that they have access to markets and information, and that trade costs are reduced for them.

Friends,

Continuing with the One Family mantra, we must also address the debt crisis faced by developing countries with sensitivity.

We need to establish a system that allows countries in crisis to overcome it and ensures that such crises never happen again.

I’m pleased that there is an agreement under the “Action Plan to Accelerate Sustainable Development Goals” to increase financing for this purpose.

I express my gratitude to all of you for this.

Friends,

The One Family approach is equally essential for a “Holistic health and Wellness” system.

The WHO Global Centre for Traditional Medicine being established in India will strengthen the promotion of wellness worldwide.

I hope that we will soon make efforts to establish a global repository for traditional medicine.

Friends,

In every society around the world, mothers are the driving force of the family.

Today, in India, we see women’s leadership in every sector.

Approximately 45% of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates in India are women.

Today, many critical missions in India’s space program are being handled by our female scientists.

Today, around 90 million women in Indian villages are taking forward small businesses by joining the Self Help Groups campaign.

I believe that women-led development will be a significant driver of change in the 21st century.

Friends,

In this One Family session, I would like to present three suggestions to you.

First, we can urge the top sports leagues in the world to invest 5% of their earnings into sports infrastructure for women in countries of the Global South.

This could serve as a new model of public-private partnership at the global level.

Second, similar to how all countries issue different categories of visas, we can establish a “G20 Talent Visa” as a special category.

This type of visa could be highly beneficial for our top science and technology talent to explore global opportunities. Their talent and efforts can contribute significantly to our economies.

Third, we can consider the establishment of Global Bio-banks under the supervision of the WHO.

These bio-banks could focus specifically on diseases like heart diseases, sickle cell anemia, endocrine disorders and breast cancer.

Setting up such Global Bio-banks in India would bring us great satisfaction.

Friends,

Now, I would like to hear from all of you.

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s Press Statement. Original Press Statement were delivered

Friends,

India is a land of diversity of faith, spirituality and traditions. Many major religions of the world were born here, and every religion of the world has found respect here.

As the ‘Mother of Democracy,’ our belief in dialogue and democratic principles has been unwavering since time immemorial. Our global conduct is rooted in the fundamental principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,’ which means ‘world is one family.’

This very notion of considering the world as one family, also connects every Indian with the sense of responsibility of ‘One Earth’. It is with this spirit of ‘One Earth’ that India has initiated the ‘Lifestyle for Environment Mission.’ With India’s initiative and your support, the entire world is celebrating the ‘International Year of Millets’ this year, in alignment with the principles of Climate Security. In line with this spirit, India launched the ‘Green Grids Initiative – One Sun, One World, One Grid’ , at COP-26.

Today, India stands among the countries where a large-scale solar revolution is underway. Millions of Indian farmers have embraced natural farming. This is a big campaign to protect human health as well as the health of the soil and the Earth. We have also launched the ‘National Green Hydrogen Mission’ in India to boost green hydrogen production. During India’s G-20 presidency, we have also taken significant steps toward creating a Global Hydrogen Ecosystem.

Friends,

Keeping in mind the challenge of climate change, energy transition is a significant need of the 21st century world. Trillions of dollars are required for an inclusive energy transition. Naturally, developed countries play a very crucial role in this.

Along with India, all the countries of the Global South are pleased that developed countries have taken a positive initiative this year, in 2023. Developed countries have expressed their willingness to fulfill their commitment of 100 billion dollars for climate finance for the first time.

By adopting the ‘Green Development Pact,’ G-20 has also reaffirmed its commitments to sustainable and green growth.

Friends,

With the spirit of collective effort, today, India has some suggestions on this G-20 platform.

Today, the need of the hour is that all countries should work together in the field of fuel blending. Our proposal is to take an initiative at a global-level to take ethanol blending in petrol up to 20 percent.”

Or alternatively, we could work on developing another blending mix for the greater global good, one that ensures a stable energy supply while also contributing to climate security.

In this context, today, we are launching the Global Biofuel Alliance. India invites all of you to join this initiative.

Friends,

Keeping the environment in mind, discussions on Carbon Credit have been ongoing for decades. Carbon Credit emphasizes what should not be done; it has a negative perspective.

As a result, what positive steps should be taken, often do not receive adequate attention. There is a lack of encouragement for positive initiatives.

Green Credit shows us the way forward. To promote this positive thinking, I propose that G-20 countries start working on a ‘Green Credit Initiative.’

Friends,

You are all familiar with the success of India’s Moon Mission, Chandrayaan. The data obtained from it will be beneficial for all of humanity. With the same spirit, India is proposing the launch of the ‘G20 Satellite Mission for Environment and Climate Observation.’

The climate and weather data obtained from this will be shared with all the countries, especially the countries of the Global South. India invites all G-20 countries to join this initiative.

Friends,

Once again, a very warm welcome and congratulations to all of you.
Now, I am eager to hear your thoughts.

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s Press Statement. Original Press Statement were delivered

Your Highnesses,
Excellencies,
Namaskar!

Before starting the formal proceedings, on behalf of all of us, I would like to express my heartfelt condolences to the people affected by the earthquake that occurred in Morocco a moment ago. We pray that all the injured people get well soon. The entire world community is with Morocco in this difficult time, and we are ready to provide them all possible assistance.

Your Highnesses,
Excellencies,

As the President of the G-20, India extends a warm welcome to all of you.

At the place where we are gathered today, just a few kilometers away from here, stands a pillar that is nearly two and a half thousand years old. Inscribed on this pillar in the Prakrit language are the words:

‘हेवम लोकसा हितमुखे ति,
अथ इयम नातिसु हेवम’

Meaning,

‘The welfare and happiness of humanity should always be ensured.’
Two and a half thousand years ago, the land of India gave this message to the entire world.

Let us begin this G-20 Summit by remembering this message.

The 21st century is a time that has the potential to give a new direction to the entire world. It’s a time when years old challenges demand new solutions from us. Therefore, we must move forward by fulfilling all our responsibilities with a Human Centric approach.

Friends,

After Covid-19, a huge crisis of lack of trust has come in the world. Conflict has deepened this trust deficit.

Just as we can overcome COVID, we can also overcome this crisis of mutual trust.

Today, as the President of the G-20, India invites the entire world to come together and, first and foremost, transform this Global Trust Deficit into global trust and confidence.

This is a time for all of us to walk together, and the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas’ can become a guiding light for all of us.

Whether its a turbulent global economy,
or the North-South divide,
or the distance between East and West,
Management of Food, Fuel, and Fertilizer,
Or dealing with Terrorism and Cybersecurity,
Or ensuring Health, Energy, and Water Security,

We must move towards concrete solutions for these challenges, not just for the present but also for future generations,

Friends,

India’s G-20 presidency has become a symbol of inclusion, both within the country and beyond, representing the spirit of ‘Sabka Saath’.

It has become a ‘People’s G-20’. Millions of Indians have engaged with it.

Over 200 meetings have been held in more than 60 cities across the country.

It was in the spirit of ‘Sabka Saath’ that India proposed permanent membership for the African Union in the G-20. I believe that we all agree on this proposal.

With your consent, before we proceed with further proceedings, I invite the Chairperson of the African Union to take their place as a permanent member of the G-20.

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s Press Statement. Original Press Statement were delivered

Your Excellency President Widodo,
Your Majesty,
Excellencies,
Namaskar

It is my pleasure to participate in the “East Asia Summit” once again. I extend my sincere congratulations to President Widodo for his outstanding leadership. Additionally, I warmly welcome His Excellency Xanana Gusmão, the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste, as an Observer in this meeting.

The East Asia Summit is a very important platform. It is the only leaders-led mechanism for dialogue and cooperation on strategic matters in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, it plays a pivotal role as the primary confidence-building mechanism in Asia. And the key to its success is ASEAN centrality.

Your Majesty, Excellencies,

India fully supports the “ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.” There is unison in the vision of India and ASEAN for the Indo-Pacific. This underscores the significance of the ‘East Asia Summit’ as a crucial platform for implementing the “Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.” ASEAN holds a central position in the vision of QUAD. The positive agenda of QUAD complements with the various mechanisms of ASEAN.

Your Majesty, Excellencies,

The present global landscape is surrounded by challenging circumstances and uncertainties. Terrorism, extremism, and geopolitical conflicts are big challenges for all of us. Multilateralism and rules-based international order are essential in countering them.

It is imperative to adhere fully to international laws; And everyone’s commitment and joint efforts are also necessary to strengthen the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. As I have said before – today’s era is not of war. Dialogue and diplomacy is the only path to resolution.

Your Majesty, Excellencies,

India’s policy in Myanmar takes into account ASEAN’s views. At the same time, as a neighbouring country, ensuring peace and security on the borders; And enhancing India-ASEAN connectivity is also our focus. Peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, is in the interest of us all.

The need of the hour is such that an Indo-Pacific – where international law, including UNCLOS, is equally applicable to all countries; where there is freedom of navigation and overflight; and where there is unimpeded lawful commerce for the benefit of everyone. India believes that the Code of Conduct for South China Sea should be effective and in accordance with UNCLOS. Additionally, it should take into consideration the interests of countries that are not directly involved in the discussions.

Your Majesty, Excellencies,

Challenges pertaining to climate change, cyber security, food security, health, and energy are particularly impacting the Global South. During our G20 presidency, we are focusing on these important issues related to the Global South.

Your Majesty, Excellencies,

I would like to reaffirm India’s commitment to the East Asia Summit process. I extend my heartiest congratulations to the incoming Chair Lao P.D.R. And I assure India’s full support to their presidency.

Thank You.

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s Press Statement. Original Press Statement were delivered

Your Excellency, President Joko Widodo,
Your Majesty,
Excellencies,
Namaskar

• Our partnership is entering its fourth decade.
• In this regard, co-chairing the India-ASEAN Summit brings me great pleasure.
• For the splendid organization of this summit, I heartily congratulate and express my gratitude to President Widoḍo.
• I also extend my congratulations to the capable leadership of the ASEAN group.
• I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister His Excellency Hun Manet of Cambodia for recently assuming office.
• I also welcome Prime Minister His Excellency Xanana Gusmão of Timor-Leste as an Observer in this meeting.

Your Majesty, Excellencies,

• Our history and geography connect India and ASEAN.
• Along with shared values, regional unity,
• Peace, prosperity, and a shared belief in a multipolar world also binds us together.
• ASEAN is the central pillar of India’s Act East Policy.
• India fully supports ASEAN centrality and ASEAN’s outlook on the Indo-Pacific.
• ASEAN holds a prominent place in India’s Indo-Pacific initiative.
• Last year, we celebrated the India-ASEAN Friendship Year and elevated our relationship to a ‘Comprehensive Strategic Partnership’.

Your Majesty, Excellencies,

• Today, even in an environment of global uncertainties, there is continuous progress in every field in our mutual cooperation.
• This is a testament to the strength and resilience of our relationship.
• The theme of this year’s ASEAN Summit is ‘ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth.’
• ASEAN matters because here everyone’s voice is heard, and ASEAN is the epicenter of growth because the ASEAN region plays a crucial role in global development.
• ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – ‘one earth, one family, one future’, this sentiment is also the theme of India’s G-20 Presidency.

Your Majesty, Excellencies,

• The 21st century is Asia’s century. It is our century.
• For this, it is necessary to build a rule-based post-COVID world order and efforts by all for human welfare.
• The progress of free and open Indo-Pacific and elevating the Voice of Global South is in the common interest of all.
• I believe that today’s discussions will lead to new resolutions for strengthening the future of India and the ASEAN region.
• Country Coordinator Singapore, upcoming Chair Lao PDR, and with all of you,
• India is committed to working shoulder to shoulder with you.

Thank you.

DISCLAIMER – This is the approximate translation of Prime Minister’s Press Statement. Original Press Statement were delivered

Shri Pravin Parekh ji, Senior Advocate and President, ISIL
Dr. Kamilline Pinitpauvadol, Secretary General AALCO
Shri Narinder Singh, Secretary-General, ISIL,
Executive Members of ISIL,
Students of international law,

Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen,

I commend ISIL for continuing this practice of seminal annual conferences, I am privileged to represent the Ministry of External Affairs, which has a special connection with ISIL – as does diplomacy and International Law, and both are changing. Disruption is all around. I will refer to MEA’s concerns in this time of disruption, and how India’s international law community may like to approach this phenomenon of change.

2. India’s diplomatic calendar has never been busier. G20, SCO, BRICS or BIMSTEC, to name a few of our engagements, which capture our concurrent and diverse interests. Atma-nirbharta or strategic autonomy, multi-polarity oriented, a net security provider, first responder, force for international good and future oriented are expressions that capture the spirit of India’s changing diplomatic priorities to meet fast morphing global challenges.

3. International law is also in a flux. It is not only about sovereign equality of States or prohibition of the use of force and protection of basic human rights anymore. Challenges like international terrorism, transnational crimes, illicit drug and human trafficking, money laundering, climate change, cyber-crime, corruption, health are other new main stream concerns for the international community. International Law now also needs to deal with a digital and AI future.

Distinguished Delegates,

4. Today, international law touches every aspect of human life. Due to rapid technological advancements, the world has become smaller. This necessitates the need for finding common approaches to counter problems of environmental degradation, cross-border terrorism, international trade, human rights and utilization of resources beyond national jurisdictions culminating into international rules. No country can afford to ignore international law.

5. Our contribution to the field of international law since independence is known. India has made notable contributions to various aspects of international law, including international humanitarian law, law of treaties, diplomatic and foreign relations, foreign trade and shipping, as well as human rights for substantial changes that have positively impacted lives of our citizens, as well as people across the world.

6. Being 1/6th of humanity and largest functional democracy in the world, India believes in the promotion of democratic values and processes. We have consistently played an important role in seeking international consensus to tackle major global challenges and foster international cooperation and collaboration.

7. As a founder member of the United Nations, India supports the purposes and principles of the UN, as embodied in its Charter. India has made significant contributions to implementing the goals of the Charter, and the evolution of the UN’s specialized programmes and agencies.

Distinguished Delegates,

8. Over decades, India has urged the UN play a more effective role in pursuing a more equitable international order and an economic environment that is conducive to developing countries. India strongly advocates the process of reform and restructuring of the UN for it be relevant to the needs of its membership. Objective realities underscore the need for thorough-going and genuine UN reform: it is an organization that is over seven decades old; its membership has expanded by nearly four times since the Charter was signed; and 2023 is not the same as 1945!

9. India believes, and there is an increasing trend of thought across countries acknowledging that no reform of the UN will be complete without the reform and expansion of the UN Security Council. It is essential that the Security Council is expanded in both the permanent and non-permanent categories. The inclusion of developing countries capable of global responsibility, will contribute to optimal decision making necessary to address the insecurity of developing countries. India has all the credentials and more to be part of a reformed UNSC which reflects the world today.

10. Friends, International law is seen from several perspectives. Some see it as reflecting Positivism, Liberalism, Constructivism, Institutionalism, Realism, Naturalism etc. What should guide us is – the Critical Legal Studies approach – a movement that challenges the traditional legal theory and practice and instead offers new intellectual histories for the discipline. This should be our inspiration. International Law and its practice also needs to break from the past in terms of dominance in rule setting.

11. As a developing country our perspective on international law is complex, multifaceted and dynamic. There was a time when we were disadvantaged in the international legal system due to lack of resources and bargaining power. Today, we can and should rethink and create space for an Indian perspective and approach to challenge the academic and theoretical constructs, and traditional power structures that have dominated international law with a built-in bias. This is a terrain where Indian diplomacy and our own International Law stakeholders will have to combine abilities.

Ladies & Gentlemen,

12. Allow me to now share how MEA has supplemented capacity building of international law in our country. I am happy to report that as part of our ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’, in recent months Ministry of External Affairs organized events jointly with AALCO and the Rashtriya Raksha University. More than 200 diplomats attended the seminar on ‘Seven Decades of Indian Constitution’ organized by MEA in our Parliament. The seminar gave an insight into our deep democratic values and commitment to international obligations reflected in our constitution.

13. As the current president of AALCO, MEA organized a Seminar on Treat Law and Practice to disseminate best practices and capacity building for Asian and African countries with emphasis on information and communication technology. Similarly, to commemorate India’s presidency of the UNIDROIT General Assembly, a Seminar on UNIDROIT projects was held with domestic stakeholders to discuss UNIDROIT’s work in the development and harmonization of private international law.

Distinguished Delegates,

14. Let me reflect some thoughts on the topics of this conference. India is party to the 1970 UNESCO Convention on Cultural Property, a pioneering international convention in the fight for cultural property. States parties to this Convention recognize that illicit import, export and transfer of ownership of cultural property impoverishes cultural heritage and that international cooperation constitutes the most efficient means of protecting any cultural property. Trafficked Indian antiquities from our past hold immense cultural and historical value for the people of India reflecting their living heritage. Government of India is actively working to retrieve stolen/trafficked Indian antiquities by entering into agreements with many countries. For example, last July we were able to repatriate more than 100 trafficked antiquities from USA.

Ladies & Gentlemen,

15. International community is currently negotiating international instruments in diverse fields of international law. For instance, in the field of cyber law, countries are deeply concerned about the protection of data of its citizens which is under attack by unknown non-state actors across the globe. In order to tackle this issue, we have concluded international cooperation agreements to prevent such attacks and safeguarding the data of our citizens. Emerging areas such as artificial intelligence or cyber security where the technology or activities of non-state entities can outpace existing law also occupy our efforts.

16. As you may know, India actively engaged in developing norms relating to the areas of marine Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction, which is now considered as a major milestone in the codification of Law of the Sea. This agreement allows India to explore ocean resources in a regulated environment, as well as projects us as a responsible maritime nation that conserves and sustains marine biological diversity.

Ladies & Gentlemen,

17. The international order is changing rapidly. In this scenario, I would like to propose that ISIL may contribute even more to our international law discourse by encouraging Research Scholars to address subjects like – Migration & Mobility, Extradition, MLAT, Insolvency, Social Security Agreement, Matrimonial, property, child custody, commercial disputes and FTAs and investment treaties. Further, emerging concerns like: Air and Space Law, Energy Law, Cyber Law and Digital Assets should also be their focus.

18. Importance may be given to Defence and security-related legal issues, Environmental law, Climate change, Law of the Sea, Water/River Laws, Agriculture and Global Health matters. Lawfare is also a looming threat and should be of particular importance.

19. To conclude, International Law involves not only negotiations and finalization of multilateral treaties, but also settlement of disputes arising out of India’s obligations under various multilateral and bilateral treaties. The process also involves domestic implementation of our international obligation. Hence, a big pool of international law experts, practitioners and arbitrator to match India’s growing international profile is required. I am confident that Indian Society of International Law, as in the past, will deliver.

20. I am confident that ISIL’s 51st Annual Conference will generate substantive discussions on the contemporary challenges of international law, and I wish your deliberations all success. MEA is open to engagement with knowledge institutions, think tanks, academics and writers from the international law space. If we find a proposition relevant and useful, I can assure you that we will reach out more than half way to you.

Thank you, for your time and attention.