New Delhi, October 4 (Daily Kiran) : At the Kautilya Economic Conclave 2026 held in New Delhi, economists and policy experts from around the globe gathered to discuss the pressing need for countries to strengthen their economic resilience amid rising global uncertainties, geopolitical tensions, and economic challenges. The event focused on India’s growth prospects, global trade dynamics, energy security, climate risks, and international collaboration.
Swedish economist Erik Berglof, who has been involved with the conference since its inception, noted significant improvements in both the quality and international participation of the event over time. He remarked on the increased attendance from various countries and representatives compared to previous years.
Berglof emphasized the current global conditions are highly uncertain, making the discussions at the conference particularly relevant. He highlighted the necessity of making economies more resilient and capable in light of risks related to energy, trade, and supply chains.
“India’s growth prospects are strong, and the country has achieved impressive economic momentum following the COVID-19 pandemic,” he stated. Despite this optimism, he acknowledged that conflicts related to Iran and escalating tensions in West Asia could impact India and other emerging economies.
He further explained that while the government has made efforts to provide relief to citizens and businesses, this may also increase fiscal pressure. Maintaining growth momentum amid global crises remains a crucial challenge for policymakers.
Juliano Assunção, Executive Director of the Climate Policy Initiative based in Brazil, highlighted climate change as the greatest shared risk facing the world today. He stressed that the climate crisis is not confined to any one nation and that international cooperation is essential for addressing it. Both India and Brazil are facing the impacts of climate change and can play a significant role in finding solutions.
Assunção noted that existing institutional ties between India and Brazil, particularly through platforms like BRICS, are strengthening. He pointed out that Indian investments in Brazil are also on the rise, indicating a growing partnership.
Professor John Gibson from New Zealand remarked on the Kautilya Economic Conclave’s role as a vital platform for dialogue between researchers and policymakers. He pointed out that discussions extend beyond India to encompass issues related to the Asia-Pacific region and the global economy.
He mentioned that amidst rising global uncertainties and pressure on the rules-based international order, free trade agreements (FTAs) can provide stability. Gibson cited the recent FTA between India and New Zealand as an example of organized economic cooperation.
Kazuto Suzuki, Director of the Institute of Geo-Economics in Japan, noted the deep interconnection between economics, geopolitics, and geo-economics in today’s world. He emphasized that the Kautilya Economic Conclave addresses not only economic issues but also the geopolitical factors influencing economic decisions.
Suzuki observed that due to complex relations with China, Japanese industries have long viewed India as a significant and promising market. He reported that many Japanese companies are actively seeking investment opportunities in India, seeing it as a long-term growth and manufacturing hub. The country’s market potential, demographic strength, and prospects for economic expansion are drawing the interest of foreign investors.
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