In a speech delivered at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed India’s shift from the era of non-alignment to what he referred to as the ‘era of Vishwa Mitra’ – a period characterized by India’s aspiration to be a global friend, fostering cooperation with a diverse array of international partners.
EAM Jaishankar articulated this transformation, stating, “India also seeks to promote cooperation with diverse partners. From the era of non-alignment, we have now evolved to that of ‘Vishwa Mitra – a friend to the world’.” He emphasized India’s commitment to engaging with a wide spectrum of nations, aligning interests where necessary. This shift is evident in the rapid expansion of groups like the QUAD, the growth of the BRICS grouping, and the emergence of the I2U2 forum.
The I2U2 group, comprising the United States, Israel, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and India, aims to enhance collaboration in technology and strategic infrastructure projects.
EAM also underscored India’s strengths in digital infrastructure, the role of women, financial institution reforms, and the significance of India’s G20 Presidency. He emphasized that G20’s vision of “One Earth One Family” seeks to address global concerns, bridge divides, and foster collaboration. He stressed that diplomacy and dialogue are crucial in a world marked by a deep North-South divide, and the era where a few nations dictated agendas has passed.
Furthermore, Jaishankar highlighted India’s commitment to inclusivity and vulnerability mitigation during its G20 Presidency. India initiated the Voice of the Global South Summit, allowing direct input from 125 nations and ensuring their concerns found a place on the G20 agenda, producing outcomes of global significance.
One notable achievement mentioned by the External Affairs Minister was the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20, giving voice to an entire continent that had long deserved such representation. He suggested that this reform could serve as inspiration for the United Nations, an older institution, to modernize the composition of the Security Council.
EAM S Jaishankar led the Indian delegation during the 78th United Nations General Assembly session in New York. During his visit, he engaged in meetings with world leaders, including the President of the United Nations General Assembly, Dennis Francis, as well as counterparts from Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Mexico, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties, trade, economy, and cooperation in various sectors.
Following his engagements in New York, he is scheduled to travel to Washington, D.C., to continue discussions with international partners.
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