India: Lead Global Pace, Not Just Catch Up, Urges Sir Ron Kalifa

Sir Ron Kalifa urged India to shift its global economic strategy from merely focusing on economic size to becoming a trusted, indispensable partner at ET WLF 2026. He articulated a vision for India to actively set the pace in the new global economy.

Kalifa’s vision outlines a future where India’s global influence stems from its foundational contributions across critical sectors. He detailed specific domains where this indispensable partnership must manifest. These areas are crucial for establishing a leading international presence.

Building Indispensable Partnerships

• Global Infrastructure: India’s role should extend to developing and maintaining essential worldwide systems.
• Technology: Contributing significantly to advancements and widespread adoption of new innovations.
• Capital: Becoming a key player in global financial flows and strategic investment.
• Innovation: Driving new ideas and solutions that benefit the international community.

The former UK Treasury advisor specifically highlighted the profound strategic importance of artificial intelligence. He characterized AI not merely as a technological advancement, but as an infrastructure race. This framing underscores the foundational investment required for national competitiveness in the digital age.

Looking ahead, Kalifa explained that the new global economy will be fundamentally shaped by a combination of key attributes. Nations must cultivate these characteristics to thrive in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. This proactive development is essential for long-term stability and growth.

Pillars of the New Global Economy

• Resilience: The capacity to withstand and recover from economic shocks and disruptions.
• Preparation: Proactive planning and strategic investment to anticipate future challenges and opportunities.
• Long-term investment: A sustained commitment to growth-enhancing projects and strategic sectors.

By integrating these principles, India can transform its global standing from a follower to a definitive leader. Sir Ron Kalifa’s remarks at ET WLF 2026 underscore a strategic imperative for the nation. This approach aims to establish India as a true pace-setter in the evolving world order.