Back money will be key issue at G-20: Modi

Modi will leave for Myanmar, Australia and Fiji on Tuesday for the India-ASEAN Summit and East Asia Summit on November 12-13 in Myanmar`s capital Nay Pyi Taw, the G 20 Summit in Brisbane Australia, the bilateral visit to Australia and the visit to Fiji Islands.

 

He will also have the opportunity to meet leaders of the Pacific Islands. 

 

During the course of these Summits and his bilateral visits, Modi will meet over 40 leaders from countries representing Asia, Africa, Europe, North America, South America and Pacific Region, as also heads of many multilateral institutions. 

 

"These meetings are taking place at a time of multiple global challenges. I look forward to seeking a global environment that supports our aspirations for economic development and a peaceful world," said Modi. 

 

The ten-nation ASEAN community has the third largest population; it would be the seventh largest economy in the world; and, the third fastest growing economic unit this century. 

 

"This dynamic region is our continental and maritime neighbor, linked by centuries-old ties. ASEAN is at the core of our Act East Policy and at the centre of our dream of an Asian century, characterized by cooperation and integration. I am looking forward to discussing with ASEAN leaders how to take our relationship to a new level, which will supplement our deepening bilateral ties with each member," the PM said in a statement on Monday.

 

"No region in the world embodies so much dynamism or faces so many challenges as the region spanning the Indian Ocean, continental Asia and Pacific Ocean. And, no other forum, perhaps, has as much potential to shape this region and the world`s future as the East Asia Summit. At the East Asia Summit, I look forward to discussing with ASEAN and seven global leaders how we can strengthen regional institutions, international norms and regional cooperation in pursuit of peace, stability and prosperity," he said. 

 

The G 20 Summit, which brings together countries that account for 85% of the world`s economic output, is a key forum for countries to coordinate their activities and pursue collective action to support global economic growth and stability, stable financial markets and global trading regimes and employment generation, according to the PM. 

 

"I also intend to discuss how we can accelerate the creation of next generation infrastructure, which also includes digital infrastructure, and ensure access to clean and affordable energy. A key issue for me would be to highlight the importance of international cooperation against black money," Modi said. 

 

He said he will be meeting leaders from other countries at the summits in Nay Pyi Taw and Brisbane. 

 

"I am looking forward to my four-city, three-day visit to Australia with great enthusiasm. I am conscious of the fact that a Prime Ministerial visit from India is taking place after 28 years. While we have much in common with Australia, our political, strategic and economic relations have been below potential. A closer strategic partnership with Australia will support India`s economic goals; promote our security interests, including maritime security; and, reinforce our efforts to foster a climate of peace and stability in our extended continental and maritime neighbourhood," said Modi.

 

Speaking on his visit to Fiji Islands, "It is in pursuit of the same goals as well our historical and ethnic links that will take me to Fiji Islands, 33 years after the last visit of Prime Minister. It will be my privilege to visit Fiji soon after the return of democracy in September 2014. We also owe them a debt of gratitude for hosting our scientists on the island in support of our Mars Mission. I am excited about visiting Fiji as also with the opportunity I will have of meeting leaders and representatives of 12 Pacific Island nations."