Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant appeal for global cooperation in space technology, urging G20 nations to share satellite data with developing countries. This call for action was a key highlight of his engagements at the G20 summit held in Johannesburg, which was hosted by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
High-Level Meetings on the Sidelines
On the sidelines of the major international gathering, PM Modi held crucial bilateral meetings. He met with the leaders of Australia and Canada to solidify new partnerships focused on technological innovation. These discussions, held away from the main summit events, were aimed at fostering stronger ties and collaborative efforts in the tech sector. The summit's proceedings were notably marked by the absence of US President Donald Trump, who chose to boycott the event.
A Push for Equitable Access to Technology
The core of Prime Minister Modi's address centered on bridging the technological divide. He emphasized that sharing satellite data is not just a matter of scientific progress but one of global equity. This data is vital for developing nations in areas such as:
- Disaster management and early warning systems
- Agricultural planning and crop monitoring
- Climate change tracking and environmental conservation
- Urban development and resource mapping
By advocating for this initiative, India positioned itself as a leading voice for the Global South, pushing for inclusive growth and technological empowerment.
Forging New Tech Alliances
Parallel to the global data-sharing proposal, India took concrete steps to enhance its bilateral relationships. The separate meetings with Australian and Canadian leaders resulted in the launch of new technology innovation ties. While specific projects were not immediately detailed, the partnerships are expected to focus on emerging fields like artificial intelligence, clean energy, and digital infrastructure, creating a framework for future collaboration.
The summit, which took place on 22 November 2025, provided a critical platform for world leaders to address pressing international issues. India's active diplomacy, championing both global public goods through data sharing and strategic bilateral tech partnerships, underscores its growing influence on the world stage.
