At G7, PM bats for energy security and inclusive growth

Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined India’s approach to energy security, anchored in the “4As”: availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability, while addressing the G7 Outreach Session in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, this week.

Modi called for global cooperation to ensure affordable and accessible energy in a rapidly changing world.

He highlighted that India, the world’s fastest-growing major economy, has already met its Paris Agreement commitments ahead of schedule, balancing rapid growth with environmental responsibility.

Modi was in Canada to attend 51st G7 Summit, representing the country as an outreach partner of G7.

While addressing the “Energy Security: Diversification, Technology and Infrastructure to Ensure Access and Affordability in a Changing World” session, Modi thanked Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for his invitation and congratulated the G7 on its 50th anniversary.

He underscored that energy security is one of the most pressing challenges for future generations, particularly as geopolitical conflicts and economic disruptions threaten global supply chains,  disproportionately impacting the Global South.

Showcasing India’s leadership in sustainable development, Modi referenced several global initiatives led by India, such as the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Global Biofuels Alliance, Mission Life, and the “One Sun, One World, One Grid” vision. He urged the international community to strengthen these platforms for a greener, more resilient global energy future.

Modi said that while artificial intelligence is a powerful driver of efficiency and innovation, it is also highly energy-intensive.

He advocated for clean and green solutions to power future technology-driven societies, stressed the need for secure and resilient supply chains for critical minerals, and highlighted the importance of diverse, high-quality data for responsible AI development.

Modi said that India is committed to representing the priorities of the Global South and added that the concerns of the Global South must be integral to global decision-making for a sustainable future.

He also appealed for a united stance against terrorism, warning against double standards and urging strict action against those who support or promote terror.

During the summit, Modi held bilateral meetings with several world leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, South Korean President Lee Jae-Myung, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. These discussions focused on strengthening trade ties, technology, energy transformation, and global challenges.

The summit also saw US President Donald Trump depart on Monday night before 51st G7 summit’s official kick-off on Tuesday to address the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, underscoring the tense international backdrop against which the G7 leaders met.