Mutual trust is world’s most valuable strategic asset: PM Modi at G7 Summit

Evian (France), June 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday underscored the importance of trust in international relations, stating that mutual trust has emerged as the world’s most valuable strategic asset in an increasingly interconnected and interdependent global landscape.

Addressing the Outreach Session titled “Forging New Partnerships and Rebuilding International Solidarity” at the G7 Summit in Evian, France, PM Modi said that in today’s world, where energy, food, health, cyber and economic security are deeply intertwined, strong international partnerships are essential for ensuring global progress and prosperity.

Sharing his views on social media platform X, the Prime Minister wrote, “In a world that is getting more interconnected and interdependent than ever before, this subject becomes all the more vital. But partnerships can succeed only when they are founded on trust.”

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), PM Modi highlighted that while the world possesses abundant resources, it is currently facing a crisis of trust, which has become a major obstacle to effective global cooperation.

“Mutual trust is the most important strategic asset today. Sadly, the world does not suffer from a shortage of resources—it suffers from a shortage of trust. The future of our partnerships depends on rebuilding this trust,” he said.

The Prime Minister pointed out that in an uncertain geopolitical environment, trade and technology are increasingly being used to serve narrow interests, contributing to a growing trust deficit in international affairs.

Reiterating India’s civilisational philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” or “The World is One Family,” PM Modi said that India’s approach to development and diplomacy has always been rooted in inclusivity and human welfare.

“We in India view the world as one family. Our experience shows that development is most effective when it is connected to the aspirations of people,” he said.

The Prime Minister noted that India has consistently adhered to the principle of “humanity first,” and this philosophy continues to guide its domestic and international initiatives.

He highlighted several global initiatives led or supported by India, including the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, the Global Biofuels Alliance, Mission LiFE and the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, as examples of India’s commitment to sustainable development and collective action.

PM Modi also emphasized India’s role as a first responder during natural disasters across the globe. He cited India’s assistance during cyclones in Sri Lanka, earthquakes in Afghanistan, floods in Mozambique and hurricanes in Jamaica as evidence of its commitment to humanitarian cooperation.

Highlighting India’s domestic development model, the Prime Minister said that the guiding principle of “Sarv Jan Hitaye, Sarv Jan Sukhaye” (welfare and happiness for all) has delivered significant outcomes in areas such as financial inclusion, healthcare, digital identity, technological empowerment and women-led development.

He stressed that the true measure of partnership lies not in building for others, but in empowering them to build for themselves.

“India believes that the true test of partnership is not what we build for others, but what we enable others to build for themselves. Our development partnerships focus on capacity building and skill development in partner countries,” he said.

PM Modi further noted that countries of the Global South are seeking equal partnerships rather than aid. He urged the international community to move beyond the traditional donor-recipient model and embrace a framework based on equality, dignity and mutual respect.

“We must walk together and not merely alongside one another. Partnerships must be linked to dignity, not dependency,” he said.

The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s development efforts in Africa, particularly in areas such as training, capacity building, water resources, agriculture and energy. These initiatives, he said, are helping African nations strengthen their capabilities and contribute solutions to global challenges.

PM Modi’s remarks at the G7 Summit reinforced India’s vision of an inclusive, equitable and trust-based global order, with stronger international partnerships playing a central role in addressing the challenges of the 21st century.

Team Maverick.