India's Ambitious Action Plan for SDGs Sets Inclusive Roadmap for G20 Actions: S. Jaishankar

Accelerating Progress on Sustainable Development Goals

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasizes India's ambitious seven-year action plan for accelerating progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the G20 Development Ministers' Meeting. This comprehensive plan presents a coordinated, integrated, and inclusive roadmap for G20 actions, addressing the challenges faced by nations worldwide.

The Universality and Integrity of the SDG Agenda

Minister Jaishankar acknowledges the significance of the SDG agenda, which applies universally to all countries and requires a comprehensive approach for successful implementation. He highlights that the progress towards the SDGs was already falling short even before the COVID-19 pandemic, and the global health crisis has further exacerbated the situation. Additionally, climate change continues to impact Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States disproportionately.

The Need for Solidarity and Inclusive Recovery

Minister Jaishankar emphasizes that the G20 Development Ministers' Meeting provides an opportunity to demonstrate solidarity on developmental issues. In the face of supply chain disruptions, debt crises, and challenges in energy, food, and fertilizer security, the decisions made by G20 countries can contribute to an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future. He calls for collective action to address the needs of the weak and vulnerable during these unprecedented and uncertain times.

India's Transformative Actions and Coordinated Roadmap

India's action plan for accelerating progress on SDGs puts forth transformative actions across three core agendas. Minister Jaishankar highlights the plan's role in galvanizing a strong G20 commitment to the development agenda while presenting a coordinated, integrated, and inclusive roadmap for G20 actions. By prioritizing transformative actions, India aims to propel progress on the SDGs and address the developmental challenges faced by nations.

Shaping Discussions at Future Forums

Minister Jaishankar considers the G20 Summit, SDG Summit, COP28, and the Summit of the Future as crucial upcoming forums. He emphasizes the importance of placing the development agenda at the heart of these discussions and advocating for those most in need. The theme of the Indian Presidency, "One Earth, One Family, One Future," calls for urgent action and highlights the need for bold ambition, solidarity, and resource mobilization.

Strengthening Global Governance and Cooperation

Minister Jaishankar underscores the necessity of strengthening international architecture and governance systems to protect global order, laws, and values. He emphasizes that diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation should take precedence over competition, conflict, and divisions. Choosing peace, cooperation, and multilateralism becomes essential in building a collective future that fosters the well-being of nations and addresses global challenges effectively.

Conclusion

India's external affairs minister, S Jaishankar, highlights India's ambitious action plan for accelerating progress on SDGs at the G20 Development Ministers' Meeting. The plan offers a comprehensive and inclusive roadmap for G20 actions, addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and economic recovery. India aims to shape discussions in upcoming global forums and advocates for solidarity, resource mobilization, and a focus on the development agenda to build a collective and sustainable future.