New York, September 27, 2024 — External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held significant discussions with top leaders of the United Nations on Thursday, emphasizing India’s proactive role in global affairs. In meetings with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and President of the General Assembly Philemon Yang, Jaishankar explored critical issues including climate change, artificial intelligence, and the geopolitical landscape.
Guterres expressed gratitude for India’s cooperation with the UN, as relayed by his spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric. The leaders discussed the recent adoption of the “Pact for the Future” during the Summit of the Future, which aims to address impending global crises collaboratively.
Yang also commended India’s efforts in promoting the interests of the Global South, noting discussions on priorities for the ongoing 79th General Assembly session. He highlighted the need to build upon the outcomes of the Summit.
Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to principles of “Unity in Diversity, Peace, Human Sustainability, and Dignity for everyone everywhere” through a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Throughout the day, Jaishankar engaged with various foreign ministers on the sidelines of the high-level meeting. He met Sierra Leone’s Foreign Minister Tim Kabba, commending the nation’s leadership on reforming multilateralism as it holds the presidency of the Security Council.
With Belarus Foreign Minister Makshim Ryzhenkov, discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in health, education, and technology. Jaishankar also touched on bilateral relations with Romania’s Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu, focusing on tourism, defense, and the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
Further discussions included meetings with Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ayman Safadi about the West Asia situation, as well as with foreign ministers from Egypt, Iran, Burundi, and Jamaica, reflecting India’s broad diplomatic outreach and engagement with diverse global issues.
These high-level interactions underscore India’s pivotal role on the international stage as it navigates complex geopolitical dynamics while advocating for collective action on pressing global challenges.