External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has called for stronger cooperation among countries of the Global South to deal with growing geopolitical tensions, economic pressures, climate related disruptions and challenges facing the multilateral system.
Speaking at a meeting of Global South nations on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Dr Jaishankar said the international environment is facing multiple pressures. He pointed to continuing conflicts, disruptions affecting supply chains and trade, uneven investment flows, rising debt concerns and insufficient development finance.
He urged developing countries to work together to overcome difficulties related to supply chains, financing and connectivity. He also stressed the need to protect energy security, maintain stable food supplies and address concerns involving grain and fertiliser availability. Fair trade practices, stronger industrial capacity and greater production capabilities were also highlighted as important areas for cooperation.
Dr Jaishankar further emphasised the importance of protecting maritime routes and ensuring the safety of seafarers and commercial shipping. On artificial intelligence, he said countries should work together to manage the changes brought by the technology and prevent new divisions. He also called for greater representation of Global South countries in international decision making.
During the UN meetings, Dr Jaishankar also held discussions with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. Their talks covered the situation in the Gulf, the India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor and the conflict in Ukraine. Both sides also discussed expanding cooperation and strengthening trade relations.
At the India CELAC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New York, Dr Jaishankar called for deeper economic and development cooperation between India and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States. He said annual trade between India and CELAC has crossed 50 billion US dollars.
Highlighting India’s cooperation with countries in the region, he referred to initiatives supporting livelihoods in the Caribbean, assistance following Hurricane Melissa, the deployment of military hospitals to Venezuela after an earthquake and the supply of medicines to Latin American nations.
Dr Jaishankar said India and CELAC have strengths that can complement each other. India can contribute technology, pharmaceuticals, skilled professionals and digital expertise, while CELAC has opportunities in critical minerals, sustainable energy, agriculture and food resources. He also proposed considering an upgrade of the Annual Business Summit from next year.