India–South Africa Cooperation
During a bilateral meeting with H.E. Mr. Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry & Competition, South Africa, both sides discussed deepening trade and technology partnerships, value-chain linkages, and investment opportunities. They agreed to advance initiatives on standards, MSME participation, and skills development, reinforcing economic ties between the two nations.
In discussions with H.E. Mr. Yeo Han-Koo, Minister of Trade, Industry & Energy, Republic of Korea, India explored collaboration in manufacturing, digital, and clean technologies. Both countries agreed to pursue joint initiatives in electronics, electric vehicle components, and trusted digital supply chains, highlighting mutual commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Engagements with Netherlands, Japan, and UK
With the Netherlands, India reviewed measures to strengthen trade ties, foster inclusive growth, enhance logistics efficiency, and support MSMEs through sustainable partnerships. In discussions with Japan’s Mr. Koga Yuichiro, the focus was on strategic trade ties, innovation-led industrial cooperation, resilient supply chains, and advanced manufacturing.
India also engaged with H.E. Ms. Liz Lloyd CBE, UK Minister for Digital Economy, to advance cooperation in digital economy initiatives, emphasizing technology-driven growth and joint projects that can enhance bilateral trade and innovation.
WTO Discussions and Global Trade Agenda
Shri Prasada highlighted India’s commitment to a rules-based, transparent, and inclusive multilateral trading system. He emphasized restoring a fully functional WTO dispute settlement system and underlined the importance of Special & Differential Treatment for developing countries, linking it to capacity gaps and development needs.
He also addressed India’s leadership role in the Global South, advocating for a permanent solution on Public Stockholding for food security and stressing policy space for development along with adequate transition periods for developing nations.
About G20
The G20, established in 1999 and elevated to Leaders’ level in 2009, is a premier forum for international economic cooperation. It comprises 19 countries, the European Union, and the African Union, collectively accounting for approximately 85% of global GDP, over 75% of world trade, and two-thirds of the global population. India’s presidency in 2023 welcomed the African Union as a member, further strengthening the forum’s inclusivity.