New Delhi, September 30, 2025 – India has positioned itself as a leading force in South-South Triangular Cooperation, championing development partnerships among nations of the Global South.
Understanding South-South Cooperation Model
South-South Triangular Cooperation brings together developing nations to share knowledge, resources, and solutions with backing from international organizations. This partnership model emphasizes mutual respect over traditional donor-recipient dynamics.
The United Nations marks September 12 as UN Day for South-South Cooperation annually. The framework traces back to the Buenos Aires Plan of Action from 1978, which laid groundwork for collaborative development among emerging economies.
Tackling Shared Development Challenges
The cooperation focuses on pressing global issues like climate change, poverty alleviation, food security, and digital transformation. Developing countries exchange proven solutions that address challenges common across the Global South region.
This peer-learning approach allows nations with similar contexts to adapt successful models. Solutions tested in one developing economy often translate better than imported frameworks from advanced nations.
India’s G20 Leadership Strengthens Global South Voice
India’s 2023 G20 Presidency marked a watershed moment for developing nations’ representation. New Delhi successfully advocated for African Union’s permanent membership, amplifying voices of 55 African countries in global economic discussions.
Through the ITEC Programme, India trains thousands of professionals from partner countries across sectors. The India-UN Development Partnership Fund has financed over 75 development projects in least developed nations, strengthening South-South ties.
Digital Public Infrastructure Sharing Gains Momentum
India is exporting its Digital Public Infrastructure success story to developing partners. Technologies like UPI payment system and Aadhaar identification platform are being adapted by nations seeking affordable digital transformation solutions.
India’s collaboration with World Food Programme addresses hunger challenges across vulnerable regions. Technical expertise sharing and resource pooling help developing nations build resilient food systems without heavy external dependence.
The South-South model represents a shift toward self-reliant, collaborative development that respects sovereignty while addressing shared aspirations of emerging economies worldwide.