Indus Valley Times

First G20 Sherpa meeting in Udaipur ends

By Swagatika Bhutia

Udaipur, Dec 7: The G20 delegation visited the Kumbhalgarh Fort and Ranakpur Jain Temple on Wednesday, the last day of the four-day meeting of G20 Sherpas in the city of lakes, Udaipur. The Kumbhalgarh fort, built by Mewar king Rana Kumbha during the 15th century, is situated amidst Aravali hills in the Kelwada tehsil of Rajsamand district, about 80 kms northwest of Udaipur.

After three days of deliberations on issues of global importance, the excursion to Kumbhalgarh and Ranakpur Temple complex came as a first-hand experience to closely witness India’s rich history.

During the Sherpa meet, the delegation of G20 members and invited countries also enjoyed the spectacular performances of classical and folk dances of India.

The G20 delegates of many countries like the Netherlands were in full praise after the Sherpa meeting, described the entire experience as magical and praised India’s culture. The delegate from the International Monetary Fund thanked India and the Government of Rajasthan for their warm welcome and described the amazing cultural experience of the meeting. The Sherpa of South Africa praised India for bringing in the element of cultural diplomacy to G20. The G20 Sherpa of Argentina described the importance of the immersion of the G20 delegates with the Indian culture, values, spirituality, and identity, while the Indonesian Sherpa highlighted support for the continuation of the development agenda during India’s G20 presidency.  

The four-day gathering of G20 members, invited countries, and representatives of international organizations set the stage for critical conversations on the most pressing issues of the present day, including technological change, green growth, and Green Development and Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE). In addition to promoting women-led development, it was agreed to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs and focus on facilitating inclusive and resilient growth.

India’s G20 Sherpa highlighted focal areas of discussion and stressed the need to reinforce collective action of the G20 nations. The overarching theme of India’s Presidency — Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth. One Family. One Future – resonated throughout the proceedings.