The G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting is an important global gathering that brings together ministers and delegates from various countries to discuss and address key developmental challenges. The upcoming meeting, scheduled to be held between 11-13 June 2023 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, will be chaired by the Union Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar. This significant event will be conducted under the G20 Indian Presidency, with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi delivering a special video address at the beginning of the meeting.
Challenges and Context
The Varanasi Development Ministers’ Meeting occurs at a time when the world is facing numerous developmental challenges. These challenges have been further exacerbated by factors such as economic slowdown, debt distress, impacts of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, growing poverty and inequality, food and energy insecurity, cost-of-living crisis, global supply-chain disruptions, and geopolitical conflicts and tensions.
Objectives of the Meeting
The G20 Development Ministerial meeting in Varanasi presents an opportunity for participating nations to collectively agree on actions for accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The meeting aims to foster synergies between the development, environment, and climate agendas while avoiding costly trade-offs that impede progress for developing countries. The decisions and outcomes of this meeting will also contribute to the United Nations SDG Summit, scheduled to take place in September in New York.
Preparatory Meetings
Before the Development Ministers’ Meeting, the fourth and final Development Working Group (DWG) Meeting was held in Delhi from June 6-9. This meeting served as a platform for building on the work done by previous G20 presidencies. The DWG has a crucial mandate of enhancing the G20’s contribution to accelerating progress towards the SDGs and strengthening the G20’s long-term vision in this regard. The DWG strives to foster sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economic growth.
Key Sessions and Focus Areas
The G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting will comprise two main sessions, each addressing a critical aspect of development:
- Multilateralism: Collective Actions for Accelerating Progress towards SDGs This session will focus on the importance of multilateral cooperation and collective action in achieving the SDGs. Participants will deliberate on strategies to enhance collaboration between nations, share best practices, and mobilize resources effectively.
- Green Development: A Life (Lifestyle for Environment) Approach The second session will highlight the significance of sustainable and green development. It will explore the LiFE approach, emphasizing the need for lifestyle changes that promote environmental conservation, resource efficiency, and the adoption of renewable energy sources.
Expected Attendance and Cultural Highlights
The G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting in Varanasi is anticipated to have around 200 delegates representing various countries. In addition to the official discussions, the organizers have arranged cultural programs, exhibitions, and excursions to provide the delegates with a glimpse into the rich culture and traditions of Varanasi. As one of the oldest cities in the world, Varanasi holds immense historical and spiritual significance.
