On Saturday, during the opening session of the G20 culture ministers meeting in Varanasi, G Kishan Reddy, the Union Minister for Culture, expressed the need of collective efforts for shaping a future where the culture along with defining our identity, also promotes sustainable development, social inclusion, and global harmony.
He expressed and said that as the timeless city along the Ganges bank, Varanasi beautifully sums up the merge of culture, arts, and traditions, providing a fitting backdrop for this significant meeting.
He added saying, “In a world teeming with diversity, our shared cultural heritage serves as the bond that unites us. It permits us to recognise and honor our disparities while rejoicing in our collective humanity. Culture extends beyond geographical and social distinctions; it stands as the distinct and dynamic manifestation of our experiences, encompassing customs, values, languages, and arts that define us.”
The considerable and motivating discussion and debate that took place during the Culture Working Party Meetings as well as Global Thematic Webinars aligned with India’s G20 Presidency have also been acknowledged by him. Reddy said that those discussions had been remarkably inspiring and through their combined wisdom and shared responsibility, they can reframe the challenges ahead as opportunities for global cultural advancement.
A report was also inaugurated by the minister that compiles Global Thematic Webinars’ best practices and insights, titled ‘G20 Culture: Shaping the Global Narrative for Inclusive Growth’. He emphasized that it is important to recognize our common cultural heritage as a guide for decisions and actions to move forward.
He further added saying, “Our potential to elevate culture into a sturdy pillar of mutual understanding, fostering international collaboration and harmony, is substantial. It is through this avenue that we draw closer to one another, crafting an intricate tapestry of humanity that nurtures inclusivity, forward-thinking, and profound diversity within society. Together, we aim to shape our envisioned world, one rooted in respect, nurtured by diversity, and flourishing in unity. Let our combined endeavours pave the path towards a future where culture stands not just as an element of our identity, but as a dynamic force steering sustainable development, social inclusion, and global harmony.”