Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday delivered a pointed message on the increasing trust deficit in global geopolitics at the G7 Summit Outreach Session, saying that the world today is grappling not with a shortage of resources, but with a growing lack of trust between nations .
Addressing the session on ‘Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity’ in Evian, France, PM Modi—seated next to US President Donald Trump—stated, “Mutual trust is the most important strategic asset today. But, sadly, today, the world does not suffer from a shortage of resources; it suffers from a shortage of trust” .
A Call to Rebuild International Solidarity
The Prime Minister stressed that the future of global partnerships depends on restoring confidence and solidarity among nations . In an increasingly interconnected world, where challenges related to energy, food, health, cyber security and economic stability are intertwined, international cooperation is indispensable for the progress of humanity .
“In an uncertain world, trade and technology are being misused for narrow interests, leading to a trust deficit in the international arena,” he warned, drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic to urge nations to focus on building transparent global partnerships .
Global South Must Be Equal Partners
A significant portion of the Prime Minister’s address centered on the aspirations of developing nations. Modi argued that countries of the Global South are seeking equitable partnerships rather than traditional aid-driven relationships .
“The Global South has immense expectations from the world. More than support, it seeks partnership. We must move beyond the donor-recipient mindset and work as equal partners,” he said . “We must walk together and not merely alongside one another. Partnerships must be linked to dignity, not dependency” .
Respect for International Law is Key
Modi identified the “lack of respect for international law” as the biggest hurdle to building international solidarity, stressing that it must be addressed as a priority . He emphasized that dialogue and diplomacy must be the preferred instruments for ensuring peace and stability, rather than coercion .
“India believes that the true test of partnership is not what we build for others, but what we enable others to build for themselves,” he added, highlighting India’s focus on capacity building and skill development in partner countries .
‘Humanity First’ and People-Centric Development
Sharing India’s approach to international cooperation, the Prime Minister stated that India has always followed the principle of “humanity first” . He cited India-led initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, and the Global Biofuels Alliance as examples of partnerships built around common goals .
Maritime Security and West Asia Conflict
The Prime Minister also raised concerns about disruptions to maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz, which have affected the global economy. He noted that several Indian civilians have lost their lives in the West Asian conflict and stressed the need to ensure that maritime routes remain secure .
“We must ensure that maritime routes remain secure and that seafarers can perform their duties without fear,” he said, welcoming the progress made in West Asia peace efforts .
