External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar arrived in Geneva, Switzerland, on Thursday, starting his visit by paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi.
In a post on X, he said, “Started my visit to Geneva by paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi. In a world of polarisation and conflict, Bapu’s message of harmony and sustainability is more relevant than ever.”
During his stay, Jaishankar is scheduled to meet with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis to review the strong partnership between India and Switzerland and explore ways to enhance bilateral ties.
“Geneva is home to a large number of UN bodies and international organizations. During the visit, EAM will meet with heads and representatives of international organizations with whom India is actively engaged,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.
Jaishankar’s Geneva visit follows his recent trips to Germany and Saudi Arabia. On Wednesday, he met German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin and conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s personal greetings. “Honoured to meet Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin today. Conveyed the personal greetings of PM Modi,” Jaishankar posted on X, adding, “Look forward to his visit to India for the 7th Intergovernmental Consultations.”
While in Germany, Jaishankar also had discussions with Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, focusing on security issues and the progress in defence ties. Additionally, he met with Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, where they reviewed the full spectrum of India-Germany relations, particularly in preparation for the upcoming 7th Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) in New Delhi in October 2024.
Jaishankar and Baerbock expressed satisfaction over the upcoming 18th Asia Pacific Conference (APK) of German Businesses to be held in New Delhi next month. The event is expected to further strengthen the business-to-business partnership between India and Germany. They also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest, including Ukraine, the Indo-Pacific, and West Asia. Additionally, Jaishankar had discussions with Foreign and Security Policy Advisor to the German Chancellor, Jens Ploetner.
Jaishankar also met with German lawmakers Friedrich Merz, Chairman of the CDU/CSU Parliamentary Group, and Michael Roth, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Bundestag.
(With ANI input)