Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Sunday that India is a natural ally of the G7 countries in protecting mutual core values from authoritarianism, terrorism and violent extremism, misinformation, and economic pressure, among other concerns.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a virtual speech at a G7 summit session on “open societies and open economies,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised India’s civilisational commitment to democracy, freedom of thought, and liberty.

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Modi also emphasised the transformative influence of digital technology on India’s community participation and empowerment, citing Aadhaar, Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), and JAM (Jan Dhan-Aadhaar- Mobile) trinity.

At a news briefing, an additional secretary (economic relations) in the MEA, P Harish highlighted the risk involved in open societies and urged tech businesses and social media platforms to create a safe cyber environment for their customers.

“The prime minister’s views were appreciated by other leaders in the gathering,” he said.

According to Harish, the G7 leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific and decided to work with regional partners.

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India’s attendance at G7 meetings indicated a consensus within the bloc that resolving “the biggest global crisis of our time” requires India’s participation and assistance, he added, referring to the coronavirus pandemic.

On these critical issues, he added, India will stay fully engaged with the G7 and guest partners, including health legislation, vaccine access, and climate action.

A senior MEA official also stated that text-based talks on a request by India and South Africa for a trademark waiver for Covid vaccines had met with general support in the G7 meetings.

The United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States make up the Group of Seven (G7) nations.

The UK, as chair of the G7, invited India, Australia, South Korea, and South Africa as guest countries to the meeting.

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From June 11 to 13, the leaders of the world’s advanced economies met in Cornwall, England. Since the coronavirus pandemic began, this is the first time the group’s leaders have convened in person.