This is an occasion to take stock of our achievements and challenges even while sharing our aspirations and goals, and indeed, India has much to share, said External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar while delivering a speech at the General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA)’s 78th session on September 25.
The EAM, in his address, commented on the current global challenges, highlighting the exceptional period of turmoil the world is experiencing. He noted that structural inequities and uneven development have already placed burdens on the Global South, and these challenges have been further exacerbated by the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflicts, tensions, and disputes. Consequently, the socio-economic progress achieved in recent years has been reversed.
Given these circumstances, the EAM emphasized that India assumed the Presidency of the G20 with a profound sense of responsibility. “India’s vision for its G20 Presidency, was to bridge divides, dismantle barriers and sow seeds of collaboration that nourish a world, where unity prevails over discord and where shared destiny eclipses isolation,” the EAM added.
In his remarks, the EAM underscored the significance of the New Delhi Summit during a period characterized by sharp East-West polarization and a deep North-South divide. He noted that the days when a select few nations dictated the agenda, expecting others to comply, are now a thing of the past.
Furthermore, the EAM drew a parallel with the United Nations, highlighting the imperative of finding common ground. He emphasized that listening to others and respecting their perspectives should not be perceived as a sign of weakness but rather as fundamental principles of cooperation.
EAM on India’s ambition to become a leading global power
EAM Jaishankar reiterated his support for reforms within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), emphasizing the need to modernize the UNSC. Highlighting the inclusion of the African Union in G20, he suggested, “This significant step in reform should inspire the United Nations, a much older organisation, to also make the Security Council contemporary.”
In his remarks, EAM Jaishankar highlighted that every nation prioritizes its national interests. India, in particular, has consistently aligned its pursuit of national interests with global well-being. India’s ambition to become a leading global power is not driven by self-centered motives but by a desire to shoulder greater responsibilities and offer more significant contributions on the global stage.
Talking about various initiatives taken by India for the global concerns, the Foreign Minister spoke about Vaccine Maitri, built development partnerships with 78 nations across geographies, first responder in disaster emergency situations, support to Turkiye, Syria in the aftermath of the earthquake, and Sri Lanka during the economic crisis, among others. He also mentioned the achievements of Chandrayan-3 mission, contributor to meeting SDG targets, transformational role of digital delivery of public goods, reservation one-third of the seats for women in our legislatures, etc.
Taking a dig at Canada’s allegations, EAM said that terrorism should not be influenced or determined by political convenience or expediency. “Similarly, respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercises in cherry-picking,” he added.
EAM’s upcoming visit
After concluding his engagements related to the 78th UNGA, EAM will embark on a visit to Washington D.C. from September 27-30. During this visit, he is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with various US counterparts. His agenda encompasses discussions with Secretary of State Antony Blinken, high-ranking members of the US administration, leaders from the American business community, and representatives from think tanks, among other activities.