Third South Summit is a key topic under International Relations for UPSC Civil Services Examination. Key points include: The 3rd South Summit was held in Kampala, Uganda, focusing on South-South cooperation.. The G77, established in 1964, is the largest intergovernmental organization of developing countries in the UN.. China is a partner, not a member, of the G77, providing political and financial support.. Understanding this topic is essential for both UPSC Prelims and Mains preparation.
Third South Summit is a Medium-level topic in UPSC International Relations. It is tested in both Prelims (factual MCQs) and Mains (analytical answer writing). Previous year UPSC questions have frequently covered aspects of Third South Summit, making it essential for comprehensive IAS preparation.
To prepare Third South Summit for UPSC: (1) Study the comprehensive notes covering all key concepts on Vaidra. (2) Practice previous year questions on this topic. (3) Connect it with current affairs using daily updates. (4) Revise using key takeaways and mind maps available for International Relations. (5) Write practice answers linking Third South Summit to related GS Paper topics.

The 3rd South Summit recently convened in Kampala, Uganda. This significant event brought together the member states of the Group of 77 (G77) and China to deliberate on crucial global issues.
The summit served as a vital platform to strengthen South-South cooperation across various sectors. Key areas of focus included trade, investment, sustainable development, climate change, poverty eradication, and the burgeoning digital economy.
Theme of the 3rd South Summit: “Leaving No One Behind”
The Group of 77 (G77) stands as the largest intergovernmental organization representing developing countries within the United Nations system. It plays a pivotal role in articulating and promoting the collective economic interests of its members.
The G77 enhances the joint negotiating capacity of developing nations on major international economic issues. This collective voice is crucial in various UN forums and international discussions.
The G77 was formally established on 15th June 1964. Its formation followed the issuance of the “Joint Declaration of the Seventy-Seven Developing Countries”. This declaration was a key outcome of the first session of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) held in Geneva.
Founding Date: 15th June 1964
Origin: First session of UNCTAD in Geneva
The G77 group currently comprises 134 members. While the group often mentions China alongside its members, China does not formally consider itself a member state.
Instead, China acts as a crucial partner to the G77. It provides significant political and financial support to the group, aligning with its objectives of fostering development in the Global South.
UPSC aspirants should note the distinction: G77 has 134 developing country members, with China as a key partner, not a member. This is a common point of confusion.
The primary aim of the G77 is to provide a unified platform for countries of the Global South. This platform enables them to collectively address economic challenges and advocate for their shared interests on the international stage.
The G77 operates with a structured organizational framework. A Chairman is elected to coordinate the group's actions and serve as its primary spokesperson in each Chapter.
The Chairmanship is considered the highest political body within the G77's structure. This role rotates annually on a regional basis, ensuring representation from different geographical blocs.
Regional Rotation: Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean.
Tenure: One year in all Chapters.
For the year 2024, the Republic of Uganda holds the prestigious Chairmanship of the G77. As Chairman, Uganda coordinates the group's actions on behalf of the member countries within the African Chapter.
The G77 maintains several Chapters in various international locations. These offices are essential for coordinating activities and representing the group's interests within different UN agencies and international forums.
The South Summit is recognized as the supreme decision-making body of the Group of 77. It convenes periodically to set the strategic direction and policy agenda for the group.
Historically, the First South Summit was held in Havana, Cuba, in 2000. The Second South Summit took place in Doha, Qatar, in 2005, preceding the recent event in Uganda.


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