PANJIM: As each G20 meeting in Goa comes to a close, delegates leave with a specially curated souvenir gifted by G20 Goa. With Goa’s commitment to upholding the vision of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the souvenir is a humble representation of the commitment to be environmentally conscious, with methods of production and waste-reduction. It is also in keeping with the theme of the G20 meetings- ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’.
“The Goa government and G20 Goa has put a lot of thought into choosing the right items for gifting, ensuring that each of them represents the essence of Goa and its cultural heritage, while also giving local artisans an opportunity to be associated with G20 through their skill and art,” says Sanjit Rodrigues, Nodal Officer G20.
The message of sustainability and self-reliance is echoed through each of the items. Besides, each gift present as part of the souvenir has various Goan elements that represent the essence of the state and its culture, traditions and ways of living.
Recently, Amitabh Kant, Indian G20 Sherpa praised Goa for its culture and the gifts (souvenirs) at the SAI20 Summit, a meeting of the Supreme Audit Institutions-20 Engagement Group. Kant who lauded the efforts of G20 Goa said: “The gifts curated here in Goa for G20 are truly unique. It captures the flavour of Goa through each of the products, from the local tile, local crafts to the local handloom and every small item that is presented in the tray. It leaves a lasting memory for delegates as they go back from Goa.”
The gifts that the delegates are taking home from Goa are recycled wood serving tray with azulejo tiles, Kunbi tote bag and embroidered stole, Goan house window replica, Samai (traditional Goan oil lamp), Terracotta lotus-shaped incense stick holder, Beach yoga mat, Organic scented candle, Copper bottle, Roasted organic Goan cashew nuts, Goanfeni and recycled stationery.
Meanwhile, as part of the nine meetings to be hosted in Goa, Ministry of Tourism is all set to organise the fourth G20 Tourism Working Group meeting and Tourism Ministerial Meeting scheduled from June 19 to 22.
