The picturesque town of Khajuraho, nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, India, is all set to host the fourth G20 Infrastructure Working Group (IWG) meeting under the G20 India Presidency. Scheduled for September 21-22, 2023, this meeting marks the culmination of India’s term as the G20 Presidency for the Infrastructure Working Group. With more than 54 delegates in attendance, including representatives from G20 member nations, guest countries, and international organizations invited by India, this gathering promises to be a platform for fruitful deliberations on key global infrastructure issues.
Deliberating Infrastructure Investments
The G20 Infrastructure Working Group plays a pivotal role in shaping global infrastructure investments. Its agenda encompasses a wide array of topics, including the development of infrastructure as an asset class, the promotion of high-quality urban infrastructure, discussions on Infratech (Infrastructure Technology), and the identification of innovative financial instruments for mobilizing resources to support resilient, sustainable, and inclusive urban infrastructure.
The outcomes of these discussions are instrumental in informing the priorities of the G20 Finance Track, thus facilitating infrastructure development worldwide.
Key Priorities for the 2023 Infrastructure Agenda
The fourth IWG meeting will serve as a platform to finalize the priorities for the 2023 Infrastructure Agenda. Key items on the agenda include discussions related to the World Bank report on the Enablers of Inclusive Cities, the compilation of Infrastructure Taxonomies, and the introduction of the Infra Tracker tool. These tools and reports aim to facilitate transparency and effective tracking of infrastructure investments made by various countries across different sectors.
Promoting Private Sector Investments
Recognizing the significance of private sector involvement in infrastructure development, a discussion in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) will be organized on the sidelines of the IWG meetings. Representatives from prestigious institutions such as the World Bank, OECD, EBRD, and UNDP, along with representatives from both the public and private sectors, will deliberate on mechanisms to scale up private sector investments in urban infrastructure. This dialogue will capture private sector perspectives on addressing challenges and enabling cities to mobilize private and commercial finance effectively.
Cultural Exchange and Exploration
Apart from the formal discussions, delegates will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Khajuraho. Excursions to the UNESCO World Heritage site at the Western Group of Temples, Adivart Museum, and Raneh Falls are planned to offer a glimpse into the region’s historical and natural treasures.
Additionally, the delegates will be treated to a “Ratri Bhoj Par Samvad” (Conversation over Dinner), featuring local cuisines. The agenda also includes a yoga session and a friendly cricket match on September 23, 2023, allowing delegates to unwind and build camaraderie amidst the scenic backdrop of Khajuraho.
As the fourth G20 Infrastructure Working Group meeting unfolds, it carries the promise of fostering international cooperation in the realm of infrastructure development, promoting sustainability, and offering a unique blend of professional dialogue and cultural enrichment for the participating delegates.
