Israel-Hamas conflict: Today, November 22, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside at the G20 virtual meeting amidst mounting global apprehensions stemming from the Israel-Hamas conflict and precarious diplomatic ties with Canada.
Confirmed participation Canada
Notably, Justin Trudeau, the prime minister of Canada, has stated that he will be present. This would be Trudeau’s first virtual conversation with Modi following the deterioration of their friendship.
After Canadian citizen and Khalistani separatist Hardeep Nijjar was killed, diplomatic ties between India and Canada have deteriorated. Canada accuses India of being responsible for the murder, however, India has denied any role.
Russia and China will be present.
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese Premier Li Qiang have both accepted India’s invitation to the meeting.
Notably, both Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping skipped the G20 Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi. This year’s event took place on September 9 and 10.
Gaza in focus
Gaza as the Main Subject
Given that the Israel-Hamas conflict is entering its sixth week, the situation in Gaza is anticipated to be a prominent topic of discussion during the summit. It is anticipated that the high number of civilian deaths and the humanitarian catastrophe will be discussed.
An important step toward a temporary ceasefire was taken today when Qatar stated that it has mediated an agreement between Israel and Hamas over a truce in exchange for captives, according to AP. The agreement is expected to ensure the release of several hostages and bring a much-needed four-day stop to the violence.
According to Qatar’s foreign ministry, the truce’s specifics will be made public tomorrow, the AP continued. Hamas is anticipated to gradually release about 50 Israeli captives in return for some 150 Palestinian inmates in Israel, most of whom are women and children.
Other anticipated conversation topics
Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, predicts strong participation and sees this as a “unique opportunity” for Modi to meet with world leaders.
Kant outlined the primary goals of the G20 summit in his statement, which included addressing shortcomings in global governance, reiterating commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and progressing toward a revitalized multilateral system poised to improve the well-being of individuals worldwide.
Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth stated that the conference will offer further momentum and guidance on subjects about the finance track. Following that, the duty will be passed to Brazil, which is set to take over the G20 presidency on December 1 and will be in charge of the global endeavor.
Ratnavali