Statement by India at the 77^th Executive Session of the Trade and Development Board, UNCTAD on Item 2: Interdependence and Development Strategies in a Globalized World delivered by Mr. Mohammed Hussain K.S., Counsellor & Legal Adviser, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, Geneva on 3 February 2025

Mr. Chair, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,

1. At the outset, India would like to express sincere appreciation to UNCTAD for the insightful Trade and Development Report 2024. Even as the world grapples with challenges greater than ever before, aggravated by geopolitical crises, it is heartening to note that several countries, including India, are expanding their economies at an accelerated pace.
2. The need for collective action to address the challenges we face cannot be emphasized enough. In this context, it is worth mentioning that India hosted the 3rd Voice of the Global South Summit in August 2024, with the overarching theme of "An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future." This unique initiative, underpinned by India's philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—"the world is one family"—brought together countries of the Global South to share their perspectives and priorities on a common platform across a wide range of issues. The inputs and feedback received from leaders of developing countries in the previous two editions of the Summit were appropriately reflected in the agenda and discussions of the G20 Summit under India’s Presidency, including in the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration.
3. India, during its G20 Presidency in 2023, highlighted the importance of inclusive growth, sustainable finance, and digital public infrastructure as key drivers of development, placing the concerns of the Global South at the center of our priorities. We thank Brazil and South Africa for continuing this momentum.

Mr. Chair,

4. India has consistently championed trade-driven growth, resilient supply chains, digital inclusion, and Sustainable Development Goals. It is one of the fastest-growing economies, with emphasize on service sector and digital economy. India is committed to a rule-based, equitable trading system that fosters shared prosperity. We call for reforms that ensure fair market access and technology transfer to developing countries.
5. We look forward to further deliberations on these critical issues at this meeting of TDB, as well as at the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development and UNCTAD-XVI later this year.

I thank you.