Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for decisive action by G20 on preserving Planet Earth

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has termed the COVID-19 pandemic as an important turning point in history of humanity and the biggest challenge the world is facing since the World War II.

He called for decisive action by G20, not limited to economic recovery, jobs and trade, but focusing on preserving Planet Earth.

He was speaking at the 15th G20 Summit convened by Saudi Arabia in a virtual format.

Mr Modi called for a new Global Index for the Post-Corona World that comprises four key elements.

These are – creation of a vast Talent Pool, ensuring that Technology reaches all segments of the society, Transparency in systems of governance, and dealing with Mother Earth with a spirit of Trusteeship.

He asserted that based on this, the G20 can lay the foundation of a new world.

The Prime Minister underscored that while there has been an emphasis on Capital and Finance in the past few decades, the time has come to focus on Multi-Skilling and Re-skilling to create a vast Human Talent Pool.

This would not only enhance dignity of citizens but would make citizens more resilient to face crises.

He also said that any assessment of new technology should be based on its impact on Ease of Living and Quality of Life.

Mr Modi called for greater Transparency in governance systems which will inspire people to deal with shared challenges and enhance their confidence.

He also said that dealing with environment and nature as trustees rather than owners will inspire people towards a Holistic and Healthy Life Style, a principle whose benchmark could be a Per Capita Carbon Footprint.

Noting that ‘Work from Anywhere’ is a new normal in the post-COVID world, the Prime Minister also suggested creation of a G20 Virtual Secretariat as a follow up and documentation repository.

The G20 Leaders’ Summit would continue today culminating in the adoption of the Leaders’ Declaration and with Saudi Arabia passing on the Presidency to Italy.