As the countdown to the G20 Summit 2023 in New Delhi continues, preparations are in full swing, with the Indian government leaving no stone unturned to ensure the event’s success. With nearly 40 world leaders and dignitaries expected to attend this high-profile international gathering at the newly constructed ‘Bharat Mandapam’ in Pragati Maidan, a comprehensive list of Union ministers assigned to welcome these global guests has been unveiled.
In a recent cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi provided vital guidance to his ministers, emphasizing the importance of hosting this prestigious event and ensuring that visiting dignitaries have a seamless experience. Here are the key highlights of the preparations and the list of ministers designated to receive world leaders:
Security in the National Capital:
The national capital is currently under tight security ahead of the G20 Summit, which is scheduled for this weekend. The event venue, ‘Bharat Mandapam’ in Pragati Maidan, has been fortified to guarantee the safety and security of all attendees.
Ministerial Assignments:
A select group of Union ministers has been entrusted with the responsibility of welcoming world leaders as they arrive in India. The list, revealed by news agency ANI, outlines the ministers assigned to specific dignitaries:
US President Joe Biden: Minister of State for Civil Aviation VK Singh will extend a warm welcome to President Biden, who is expected to arrive at 6.55 pm (tentative time) on Friday.
UK PM Rishi Sunak: Minister of State for Consumer Affairs Ashwini Kumar Choubey will receive Prime Minister Sunak as he lands in Delhi at 1.40 pm.
Japan PM Fumio Kishida: Minister Choubey will also welcome Prime Minister Kishida, who is scheduled to arrive in India by 2.15 pm.
Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina: Minister of State for Railways Darshana Jardosh will receive Prime Minister Hasina, who is set to reach New Delhi at 12.30 pm on Friday.
Italy PM Giorgia Meloni: Minister of State for Agriculture Shobha Karadlaje will welcome Prime Minister Meloni, who is expected to arrive in Delhi at 6.20 am on Friday.
China’s Premier Li Qiang: Minister VK Singh will receive Premier Li Qiang, representing Chinese President Xi Jinping. Li Qiang is anticipated to reach the national capital at 7.45 pm on Friday.
Australian PM Anthony Albanese: Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar will extend greetings to Prime Minister Albanese, arriving at 6.15 pm on Friday.
French President Emmanuel Macron: Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Anupriya Patel will welcome President Macron, who is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi at 12.35 pm on Saturday.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz: Minister of State for MSME Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma will receive Chancellor Scholz, arriving at 8 am on Saturday.
UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan: Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai will extend a warm welcome to President Al Nahyan as he arrives in the national capital at 8 pm on Friday.
Tech and Translation Assistance:
In line with modern technology, Prime Minister Modi encouraged his ministers to utilize the G20 India mobile app during interactions with foreign dignitaries. The app boasts an instant translation feature that covers all Indian languages and those of G20 nations, making communication smoother and more accessible.
As the world eagerly anticipates the G20 Summit in New Delhi, India is poised to showcase its hospitality, diplomacy, and commitment to addressing pressing global issues during this prestigious international event. The Union ministers assigned to receive world leaders will play a crucial role in setting the tone for constructive discussions and collaborations that will shape the future.