Johannesburg, south africa — indian Prime minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a three-day visit to south africa (November 21–23, 2025) to participate in the 20th G20 Leaders’ Summit, alongside the 6th IBSA (India–Brazil–South Africa) Leaders’ Meeting on the sidelines.
A “Particularly Special” Summit
Modi called this summit “particularly special” for india and the world, noting that this is the first-ever G20 Summit being held on the African continent. He added that the global gathering presents an especially important opportunity to elevate voices from the Global South — a theme that india has consistently championed.
Promoting a Global Philosophy: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam
In his departure remarks, Modi announced he would present India’s perspective at the G20 in alignment with the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — an ancient indian concept meaning “the world is one family.”
He further expanded this framing with the phrase: “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”
This vision is not new — it has been central to India’s global diplomacy. During its G20 Presidency in 2023, india made “One Earth, One Family, One Future” a guiding ethos, emphasizing unity, inclusion, and shared responsibility.
Modi sees these values as a roadmap for global cooperation, especially on development, climate action, and equitable growth.
Key Priorities on the Agenda
According to government sources, PM Modi is expected to address all three formal sessions of the G20 summit.
The sessions cover:
1. Inclusive & Sustainable Economic Growth – focusing on trade, development finance, and debt.
2. A Resilient World – addressing climate change, disaster-risk reduction, energy transitions, and food systems.
3. A Fair & Just Future for All – dealing with critical minerals, decent work, and the rise of artificial intelligence.
Diplomacy on the Side: IBSA Summit & Bilaterals
On the sidelines of the G20, Modi is also scheduled to participate in the 6th IBSA Summit, bringing together leaders from india, Brazil, and south africa to deepen cooperation on political, economic, and developmental issues.
He is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with several G20 heads of state.
Connecting with the indian Diaspora
Modi has expressed his eagerness to engage with the Indian diaspora in South Africa, describing it as one of the largest communities outside India.
He sees this as not just a diplomatic visit, but also a chance to strengthen cultural and people-to-people ties.
Why This Visit Matters
· Global South Spotlight: With the G20 being hosted in Africa for the first time, Modi’s presence emphasizes the growing importance of southern economies and their priorities.
· Values-Driven Diplomacy: By foregrounding the “One Earth, One Family” philosophy, Modi is not just pushing a political agenda — he is advocating for a values-based global order.
· Sustainability & Equity: His framing aligns closely with this year’s G20 theme of “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability”, put forward by South Africa’s presidency.
· Long-Term Partnerships: The IBSA Summit adds strategic weight to the trip, reinforcing India’s commitment to multilateralism and south-south cooperation.
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