RISHIKESH: The third meeting of G20 Infrastructure Working Group (IWG) was held here from June 26- 28. There were 63 delegates from G20 member countries, invitee countries, and international organisations.
There were deliberates on various aspects of infrastructure investments, including developing infrastructure as an asset class, promoting quality infrastructure investment, and identifying innovative instruments for mobilising financial resources. The outcomes of IWG feed into the G20 finance track priorities and promote infrastructure development.
Ensuring livelihoods
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami hosted a dinner for the delegates and emphasised that a country’s progress was not merely measured by infrastructure development, but also by ensuring accessible and sustainable livelihoods for its citizens.
Two crucial sessions were held, co-chaired by Australia and Brazil, focusing on enhancing the capacities of urban administrations and addressing other key elements outlined in the 2023 Infrastructure Agenda. There was a presentation by the Asian Development Bank.
Liveable cities
There were panel discussions on ‘Building sustainable and liveable new cities’; ‘Achieving a sustainable and inclusive future’; ‘The role of infratech in urban infrastructure’; ‘Furthering work on the implementation of QII indicators’; and ‘Enhancing access to urban services and opportunities’. The closing session focused on ‘The framework for capacity building of urban administration for cities of tomorrow’.
Delegates discussed ‘Complimenting InfraTracker 2.0’, and explored India’s potential to become an MRO Hub in the aviation sector.
Leisure time
Delegates appreciated Indian hospitality and praised India’s presidency for dedicated efforts towards achieving progress across work streams. They visited the renowned Chaurasi Kutia, also known as the Beatles Ashram. The Beatles, the legendary English rock band, once stayed at the ashram for nearly two months to learn transcendental meditation and created some of their finest music after this sojourn. The ashram, owned by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, holds historical significance in pioneering the transcendental meditation movement.
The delegates also got a chance to indulge in the delectable local cuisines of Uttarakhand and immersed themselves in the state’s rich culture and heritage. Adding a touch of relaxation and rejuvenation, a ‘Yoga Retreat’ for the delegates was organised, allowing them to experience the ancient Indian practice firsthand.
