By Huma Siddiqui
New Delhi, Jan 9
Leaders from various corners of the globe have commenced their journey to Gandhinagar, marking the commencement of the much-anticipated two-day 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS) in 2024. The participant list boasts representatives from over 34 countries and 16 partnering organizations, featuring notable figures such as East Timor President and Nobel Prize winner Jose Ramos-Horta. Also, the heads of state from the United Arab Emirates and Mozambique, alongside Prime Minister Petr Fiala (ODS) of the Czech Republic, are set to grace the occasion.
Theme of VGGS
Scheduled from January 10 to 12, the summit is themed ‘Gateway to the Future,’ embodying the celebration of ’20 Years of Vibrant Gujarat as the Summit of Success.’ It traces its origins back to 2003 under the dynamic leadership of Narendra Modi during his tenure as the state chief minister. Over the years, the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit has evolved into a significant platform, underscoring the growth trajectory and opportunities within Gujarat.
India & Mozambique:
President Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique engaged in a comprehensive meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gujarat. The discussions between the two leaders focussed on strategic areas such as defence, trade, energy, cultural ties, counter-terrorism, health, and maritime cooperation. The scope of discussions expanded to encompass regional and international issues, fostering cooperation across various multilateral forums.
Deepening the bond between Delhi and Dili!
Gandhinagar witnessed a momentous meeting between PM Modi and President Jose Ramos Horta of Timor-Leste, covering an extensive range of bilateral cooperation. Conversations spanned developmental partnerships in health, traditional medicine, energy, IT, FinTech, health, and capacity building. In a diplomatic gesture, PM Modi extended an invitation for Timor-Leste to join the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
This visit marked a historic milestone as the first Head of State-level interaction between India and Timor-Leste. Noteworthy is India’s early establishment of diplomatic relations with Timor-Leste. Serving as a partner country for the summit, Timor-Leste expressed keen interest in exploring the developmental potential of states like Gujarat.
PM Modi underscored the significance of this meeting at Mahatma Mandir, drawing parallels to Mahatma Gandhi’s profound influence on Horta’s life and work. President Horta’s arrival in Gujarat on Monday for the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Summit was met with a warm welcome from Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel at the airport.
PM Modi’s Gujarat Visit:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down in Ahmedabad on Monday for a two-day visit, marking the inauguration of the 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. Expressing his enthusiasm in a social media post, PM Modi shared, ‘Landed in Ahmedabad a short while ago.
Upon arrival in Gujarat, PM Modi in a post on X wrote, “Landed in Ahmedabad a short while ago. Over the next two days, will be taking part in the Vibrant Gujarat Summit and related programmes. It is a matter of immense joy that various world leaders will be joining us during this summit. The coming of my brother, Mohamed Bin Zayed, is very special. I have a very close association with the Vibrant Gujarat Summit and I am glad to see how this platform has contributed to Gujarat’s growth and created opportunities for several people.”
On January 10, Prime Minister will inaugurate Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. Thereafter, he will hold a meeting with CEOs of top global corporations. The Prime Minister will then travel to GIFT City where, at around 5:15 PM, he will interact with prominent business leaders in the Global FinTech Leadership Forum.
Malta at VGGS:
The international attention garnered by the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2024 included the presence of Reuben Gauci, the High Commissioner of Malta in Delhi. Gauci expressed his pleasure at attending the summit, emphasizing its significance in showcasing not only the vibrancy of Gujarat but also the dynamic spirit of India as a whole. He eagerly anticipated the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Considering Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean, there lies potential for mutually beneficial engagements with India across diverse areas, including trade, culture, and diplomatic ties.
Czech Republic Engagement:
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala (ODS) is arriving later today. His itinerary includes a meeting with his counterpart, Narendra Modi, visits to the university in Jaipur, discussions with local representatives, and a significant speech at the Vibrant Gujarat economic summit. Fiala is slated to deliver a speech at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors Summit on Wednesday, followed by a meeting with Modi.
On Thursday, Fiala is scheduled to visit the National Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center at the university in Jaipur. Additionally, he plans to tour the construction of the Marik Center of Artificial Intelligence, Robotics & Cybernetics, and engage with representatives from the university, local government, the business community, and start-ups.
Fiala’s visit to India may draw attention to the case of Indian citizen Nikhil Gupta, who has been detained in Prague since June. The United States has accused him of plotting to assassinate a Sikh separatist leader in New York and is demanding his extradition. This matter could potentially become a key point of discussion between Indian officials and the Czech Prime Minister.
The Ambassador of the Czech Republic, Eliska Zigova, expressed her anticipation for discussions that extend beyond traditional trade matters during her visit to Gandhinagar. Key issues expected to feature prominently in the discussions include sustainability, energy, and mobility, reflecting the shared responsibility of nations in working towards a more sustainable and interconnected world.
Collaboration in science, education, and innovation is also likely to be a focal point, emphasizing the importance of knowledge exchange and technological advancements.