India’s position with respect to the Group of Seven (G-7) has evolved significantly in recent years. While India is not a member of the G-7, its growing economic clout, strategic importance, and influence in global affairs have led to its inclusion in several key discussions and meetings with the group. The G-7, comprising the world’s seven largest advanced economies—Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States—has increasingly recognized India’s role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, and geopolitical stability. India’s engagement with the G-7 reflects its rising stature on the global stage and its potential to contribute to shaping a more inclusive and representative international order.
Tags: GS – 2, IR- Important International Institutions– Groupings & Agreements Involving India
Context:
- Recently, leaders from the Group of Seven (G7) countries, which include the U.S., Canada, Germany, France, Japan, the U.K., and Italy, convened in Apulia, Italy, from June 13-15. The
- European Union leadership also participated in the summit. India, invited 11 times to this event, saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi attend for the fifth time.
- The G7 leaders gathered to address key global issues, including bridging the gap between the “West and the Rest,” funding the Ukraine war, investing in Africa, and tackling migration, climate change, and artificial intelligence.
- They agreed to allocate $50 billion for Ukraine using Russia’s frozen assets and held a summit focused on promoting clean energy in Africa.
- They criticised China’s trade practices and engaged with leaders from 10 countries, including India, to discuss concerns of the Global South.
About the Group of Seven (G7):
- Origin of G7:
- The G7 originated in response to the 1973 oil shocks and the subsequent financial crisis.
- To address these challenges, the heads of six leading industrial nations— the US, UK, France, West Germany, Japan, and Italy—held a meeting in 1975.
- Canada joined in 1976, officially forming the G7.
- Current Members:
- The current G7 members are the US, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan, representing some of the world’s most developed and advanced economies.
- Russia joined in 1997, but it was renamed as G7 after Russia was expelled as a member in 2014 following its annexation of the Crimea region of Ukraine.
- The European Union is also represented within the G7.
- Significance:
- Wealth: Control 60% of global net wealth
- Growth: Drive 46% of global GDP
- Population: Represents 10% of the world’s population.
Significance of India for G7:
- India’s Role in the G-7 Process:
- India has been a significant part of the G-7 process for years, gaining attention in the 2000s for its steady growth during the global financial crisis.
- Though not a G-7 member, India is a key Global South member and has hosted the “Voice of Global South” conference since 2023.
- Part of G-20 Troika:
- India is part of the G-20 troika with Brazil and South Africa, enhancing its strategic importance in global economic and political discussions.
- Economic Growth and Stability:
- India gained attention from the G7 in the 2000s due to its steady economic growth during the global financial crisis, demonstrating its resilience and potential as a major economy.
- Strategic Partnerships:
- India’s role in the G-20 troika with Brazil and South Africa adds to its strategic importance in global forums.
- Regional Stability and Development:
- India’s involvement in G7 outreach efforts contributes to regional stability and development through investments and cooperation in areas like clean energy, trade, and economic development.
- Geopolitical Balance:
- India’s participation helps balance global geopolitical dynamics, especially amidst rising concerns about China’s influence and trade practices.
- India’s strategic position and partnerships are crucial for maintaining global stability.
Significance of G7 for India:
- Highlighting Achievements:
- The G-7 outreach session is a crucial platform for India to showcase its achievements and perspectives.
- During the session, PM Modi emphasised the importance of Indian elections, technology, artificial intelligence, and climate change.
- Economic Significance:
- The G7 nations account for nearly 60% of global net wealth ($317 trillion as of 2018).
- They represent 30% of global GDP and about 770 million people, or 10% of the world’s population.
- Political Significance:
- The G7 can shape responses to multilateral challenges.
- In 1999, it created the Financial Stability Forum to manage the international monetary system.
- The 47th summit in June 2021 focused on COVID-19 recovery, promising 1 billion vaccines to poorer countries with the theme “Global Action to Build Back Better.”
- Developmental Significance:
- In 1997, the G7 provided $300 million to contain the Chernobyl reactor meltdown.
- In 2002, it played a crucial role in setting up a global fund to fight malaria and AIDS.
- In October 2020, G7 finance ministers backed the G20 bilateral debt relief initiative for the world’s poorest countries.
- Advocacy for the Global South:
- India uses the G7 platform to advocate for Global South concerns like economic inequality, climate change, and resource security.
- This ensures that developing nations’ voices are heard in global decision-making processes.
- Technological and Climate Initiatives:
- India’s participation in G7 discussions on technology and climate change allows it to contribute to and benefit from global initiatives.
- It provides an opportunity for India to share its innovations and approaches.
- Showcasing Democratic Values:
- By participating in the G7, India reinforces its commitment to democratic values and principles.
- This aligns India with other major democracies and highlights the importance of democratic governance on the global stage
Criticism faced by G7:
- Elitist, Non-Inclusive Group:
- The G-7 is criticised for being elitist and non-inclusive, excluding three of the world’s top 10 economies: China, India, and Brazil.
- Unlike the G-20, the G-7 lacks representation from a broader spectrum of the world.
- Membership Issues:
- The G-7 has not expanded its membership, even reducing it by dropping Russia in 2014.
- In contrast, BRICS has expanded to include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia, alongside Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
- Challenges to Relevance:
- The G-7’s inability to influence Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, stop Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, or deter China’s global economic influence raises questions about its relevance and effectiveness.
- Future Uncertainty:
- The G-7’s future effectiveness is uncertain, especially with potential leadership changes due to upcoming elections in the U.K. and the U.S.
- The next G-7 summit will be in Alberta, Canada, in 2025, and it remains to be seen if India will continue to participate on the sidelines.
Conclusion:
Hence, India’s economic strength, strategic role in the Indo-Pacific, involvement in the European energy crisis, and potential for conflict mediation add immense value to the G7 Summit. As the global order evolves, collaboration with India will be essential for shaping future international cooperation.
| UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs) Prelims Q:1 The term ‘Intended Nationally Determined Contributions’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of (2016) (a) pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East (b) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change (c) capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (d) plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals Answer: (b) Q:2 With reference to the Agreement at the UNFCCC Meeting in Paris in 2015, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016) 1. The Agreement was signed by all the member countries of the UN and it will go into effect in 2017. 2. The Agreement aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions so that the rise in average global temperature by the end of this century does not exceed 2°C or even 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. 3. Developed countries acknowledged their historical responsibility in global warming and committed to donate $1000 billion a year from 2020 to help developing countries to cope with climate change. Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Answer: (b) Q:3 In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G20? (2020) (a) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey (b) Australia, Canada, Malaysia and New Zealand (c) Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Vietnam (d) Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and South Korea Ans: (a) Mains Q:1 ‘Climate change’ is a global problem. How will India be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India are affected by climate change? (2017) Q:2 Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (2021) |
Source:TH
FAQs
1. What is India’s relationship with the G-7?
Answer: India is not a member of the G-7, which comprises the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom. However, India has been increasingly involved with the G-7 through invitations to attend G-7 summits and participate in discussions on global issues. This engagement reflects India’s growing influence in international affairs and the recognition by G-7 countries of India’s importance in addressing global challenges such as climate change, economic stability, and security.
2. Why is India invited to G-7 summits?
Answer: India is invited to G-7 summits due to its significant role in the global economy, its large population, and its strategic importance in geopolitical matters. As a major democracy and a rapidly growing economy, India’s perspectives on issues like trade, technology, health, and environmental sustainability are valued. Additionally, India’s participation helps the G-7 address global challenges more inclusively, considering inputs from major non-member nations.
3. What are the key areas of cooperation between India and the G-7?
Answer: The key areas of cooperation between India and the G-7 include:
- Climate Change and Environmental Protection: India collaborates with G-7 countries on initiatives to combat climate change, promote renewable energy, and protect biodiversity.
- Economic Growth and Trade: India engages in discussions on global trade policies, economic recovery, and sustainable development.
- Health and Pandemic Response: Cooperation on global health issues, including pandemic preparedness and response, is a critical area of collaboration.
- Technology and Digital Economy: India and the G-7 work together on advancing technological innovation, cybersecurity, and the regulation of the digital economy.
- Security and Strategic Affairs: India participates in dialogues on global security, counter-terrorism, and maintaining a rules-based international order.
4. How has India’s involvement in the G-7 evolved over time?
Answer: India’s involvement in the G-7 has evolved from being a mere observer to an active participant in many of the group’s initiatives and discussions. Initially invited to attend summits as a guest, India now regularly contributes to various working groups and thematic sessions. This evolution underscores India’s increasing prominence on the global stage and its readiness to engage in multilateral diplomacy to address global challenges.
5. What impact does India’s participation in the G-7 have on its global standing?
Answer: India’s participation in the G-7 significantly enhances its global standing by showcasing its commitment to multilateralism and global governance. It provides India with a platform to voice its views on international issues, influence global policy-making, and strengthen its bilateral relations with G-7 countries. This engagement also helps India to align with major economic and political powers, thereby boosting its strategic and economic interests on the global stage.
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