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Tag: jaishankar

  • Jaishankar Rules Out India-Pakistan Talks At SCO Summit in Islamabad

    Jaishankar Rules Out India-Pakistan Talks At SCO Summit in Islamabad

    EAM Dr S. Jaishankar said that he is traveling to Pakistan only to be a “good member of the SCO”, reports Asian Lite News

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday that he is not going to Islamabad to discuss “India-Pakistan relations” but his visit is all about the multilateral event, which is the SCO Summit 2024, taking place in the neighboring country.

    The minister said that he is traveling to Pakistan only to be a “good member of the SCO”.

    “Yes, I am scheduled to go to Pakistan in the middle of this month and that is for the meeting of the SCO –the heads of government meeting,” Jaishankar said while delivering the Sardar Patel Lecture on Governance organized by IC Centre for Governance in New Delhi.

    “I expect that there would be a lot of media interest because the very nature of the relationship is such and I think we will deal with it. But I do want to say it will be there for a multilateral event, I mean I am not going there to discuss India-Pakistan relations. I am going there to be a good member of the SCO. Since I am a courteous and civil person, I will behave myself accordingly,” he underlined.

    The External Affairs Minister highlighted that the SCO Summit is taking place in Islamabad this time, because, similar to India, Pakistan too, is a recent member of the bloc.

    “Normally the Prime Minister goes to the high-level meeting, the heads of state, that’s in line with the tradition. It so happens that the meeting is taking place in Pakistan, because, like us, they are a relatively recent member,” Jaishankar added.

    On being asked about his planning before he heads to the summit, the EAM stated, “Of course, I am planning for it. In my business, you plan for everything that you are going to do, and for a lot of things that you are not going to do, and which could happen also, you plan for that as well.”

    On Friday, the MEA said that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be traveling to Pakistan to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit scheduled to take place in October.

    On being asked about India’s participation in the upcoming SCO Summit, the MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “EAM Jaishankar will lead a delegation to Pakistan to participate in the SCO summit which will be held in Islamabad on October 15-16.”

    Earlier in August, India received an invitation from Pakistan for the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) in-person meeting.

    In May 2023, Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari visited India for the SCO meeting in Goa. This was the first visit by a Foreign Minister of Pakistan to India in six years.

    The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is a permanent intergovernmental international organisation established on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai by Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Its predecessor was the mechanism of the Shanghai Five. Currently, the SCO countries include nine member states: India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The SCO has three observer states: Afghanistan, Mongolia, and Belarus.

    At the Samarkand SCO Summit in 2022, the process of raising the status of the Republic of Belarus within the Organisation to the level of a member state started. The SCO has 14 dialogue partners: Azerbaijan, Armenia, Bahrain, Egypt, Cambodia, Qatar, Kuwait, the Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye and Sri Lanka. (ANI)

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  • Jaishankar meets Sullivan, Harris’ NSA Gordon

    Jaishankar meets Sullivan, Harris’ NSA Gordon

    EAM Jaishankar has held a series of meetings with top officials of the Biden administration in Washington after addressing the UN General Assembly in New York…reports Asian Lite News

    External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar held a “productive” meeting with US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan on Wednesday.

    The EAM also met Philip Gordon, the NSA to Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for President. He is among those mentioned as Harris’ NSA if she wins.

    “As always, a productive conversation on bilateral cooperation and good insights into global politics,” EAM Jaishankar wrote on X about his meeting with Sullivan.

    A White House readout is awaited.

    “Appreciated the conversation on our bilateral ties and various global developments,” the EAM wrote in a separate post on X after his meeting with Gordon.

    Gordon had a longer post on the meeting. “Great to meet this week with Minister @DrSJaishankar of India. We took stock of important progress in the U.S.-India relationship, including our growing defense and technology cooperation. We also discussed regional security issues in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East and Europe.”

    EAM Jaishankar has held a series of meetings with top officials of the Biden administration in Washington after addressing the UN General Assembly in New York. On Tuesday, he met Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

    About the EAM’s meeting with Blinken, the State Department had said that they discussed the two countries’ “enduring commitment to deepening bilateral ties, coordinating closely on regional and global challenges, and advancing cooperation on critical and emerging technologies”.

    Secretary Blinken “noted” Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s August visit to Kyiv and “reiterated the importance of a just and lasting peace for Ukraine”, the Statement Department had said.

    India has been talking with Moscow and Kyiv in an effort to keep the lines of communication between them open. Although New Delhi has sought to underplay its role, its efforts are attracting attention and generating interest as the only country with the ability to talk to both parties in the conflict.

    They also discussed plans to expand collaboration on clean energy initiatives to address the global climate crisis.

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  • Jaishankar appreciates efforts of Indian diaspora

    Jaishankar appreciates efforts of Indian diaspora

    Jaishankar on Saturday also emphasised that large parts of the world cannot be left behind while addressing key issues…reports Asian Lite News

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar participated in the launch of the PanIIT Alumni Foundation in New York, alongside the 79th United Nations General Assembly session on Saturday.

    During the event, he appreciated the efforts and contributions of India’s diaspora community in developing the Viksit Bharat.

    Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, “Pleased to participate in the launch of PanIIT Alumni Foundation in New York. A good chat with Dr. Purnendu Chatterjee on developing a technology and manufacturing ecosystem in India.”

    He added, “Appreciate the efforts and contributions of our diaspora in developing a Viksit Bharat.” Meanwhile, Jaishankar also met his counterparts from Mexico and Algeria on the sidelines of UNGA.

    Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, “After the speech at UNGA79. With FM Alicia Barcena of Mexico.” In another post, he said, “A warm meeting with FM Ahmed Attaf of Algeria today on the sideline of UNGA79. Useful exchange on taking forward our long-standing partnership. Also discussed advancing our multilateral cooperation.”

    Jaishankar on Saturday also emphasised that large parts of the world cannot be left behind while addressing key issues and highlighted the need for a United Nations that is effective, efficient, and representative.

    The remarks by Jaishankar came during his address at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York on Saturday. He said, “The global order is inherently pluralistic and diverse. The UN began with 51 members; we are now 193. The world has changed profoundly and so have its concerns and opportunities. But to address both and indeed to strengthen the order itself, it is essential that the UN be the central platform for finding common ground. And that it certainly cannot be, by remaining anachronistic.

    He added, “Large parts of the world cannot be left behind when it comes to deciding the key issues of our times. An effective and efficient UN, a more representative UN and a UN fit for purpose in the contemporary era are essential.”

    Highlighting the importance of global cooperation, the EAM noted that through sharing experiences, and pooling resources, the world can be transformed. “Let us therefore send out a clear message from this UNGA Session: we are determined not to be left behind. By coming together, sharing experiences, pooling resources and strengthening our resolve, we can change the world for the better,” Jaishankar said. (ANI)

    EAM advocates for efficient and representative UN

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasised that large parts of the world cannot be left behind while addressing key issues and highlighted the need for a United Nations that is effective, efficient, and representative.

    The remarks by Jaishankar came during his address at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York on Saturday.

    He said, “The global order is inherently pluralistic and diverse. The UN began with 51 members; we are now 193. The world has changed profoundly and so have its concerns and opportunities. But to address both and indeed to strengthen the order itself, it is essential that the UN be the central platform for finding common ground. And that it certainly cannot be, by remaining anachronistic.

    He added, “Large parts of the world cannot be left behind when it comes to deciding the key issues of our times. An effective and efficient UN, a more representative UN and a UN fit for purpose in the contemporary era is essential.”

    Highlighting the importance of global cooperation, the EAM noted that through sharing experiences, and pooling resources, the world can be transformed. “Let us therefore send out a clear message from this UNGA Session: we are determined not to be left behind. By coming together, sharing experiences, pooling resources and strengthening our resolve, we can change the world for the better,” Jaishankar said.

    Jaishankar during his address, also highlighted the concerns of the Global South, and said that development plans and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets are drifting away. He said, “We are gathered here at a difficult time. The world is yet to recover from the ravages of the Covid pandemic. A war in Ukraine is well into its third year. The conflict in Gaza is acquiring wider ramifications. Across the Global South, development plans have gone off rails and SDG targets are receding. But there is more.”

    He highlighted the threats facing the region — unfair trade practices, devastating climate events, and food security concerns. He said, “Unfair trade practices threaten jobs, just as unviable projects raise debt levels… Technology advancements, which have long been a source of hope, are now equally a factor of anxiety. Climate events occur with greater intensity and frequency. Food security is as worrisome as health security.”

    He further said, “As the world contemplates these concerns, India has sought to respond in a variety of ways.”

    Elaborating on the measures, Jaishankar added, “First, by focusing on the issues of the vulnerable, women, farmers and youth. And fashioning targeted policies and initiatives for their betterment. Assured access to piped water, to electricity, to cooking gas and new homes are changing millions of lives. The gender gap has started to close, be it in health, in education or in the work place. Our food producers, thrice a year, get financial support at the click of a button. And a third-term government has made skilling of the youth its key priority.”

    Jaishankar further asserted that India has made significant strides in expanding opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. “Second, by expanding opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship, including through stronger training and large-scale financial incentives. 495 million Mudra loans have been given to small businesses in the last decade. 67 per cent of them are women. Equally telling, 6.56 million street vendors have availed 8.85 million Svanidhi loans. This is just in the last 4 years. 45 per cent of the beneficiaries are again women.”

    He added, “Third, by creating templates that are replicable elsewhere. It could be digital delivery or enhancing the quality of governance and public services. As indeed, making medicines and health facilities accessible and affordable…”

    The EAM stressed the importance of empowering the Global South to share its collective concerns. “Fourth, by encouraging the Global South to voice its shared concerns and come together. To that end, we have convened three Global South Summits, the most recent in August of 2024.”

    He further said, “And fifth, by contributing to the well-being of the global commons and responding to the pressing needs of those in distress. This has ranged from undertaking projects in 78 nations, providing resources to neighbours and responding to HADR situations, to supplying medicines and ensuring maritime safety and security.” (ANI)

    ALSO READ: Jaishankar amplifies voice of Global South

  • Jaishankar attends joint ministerial meeting of L.69 and C-10 groupings

    Jaishankar attends joint ministerial meeting of L.69 and C-10 groupings

    Jaishankar highlighted the need for reform of United Nations Security Council membership in permanent and non-permanent categories….reports Asian Lite News

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the first-ever Joint Ministerial Meeting of L.69 and C-10 groupings of nations on the sidelines of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday.

    During the meeting, Jaishankar highlighted the need for reform of United Nations Security Council membership in permanent and non-permanent categories.

    The L.69 Annual Ministerial Meeting meeting was chaired by Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister, Ralph E Gonsalves, in his capacity as Spokesperson of the L.69, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) press release.

    Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, “Encouraged by the first – ever Joint Ministerial Meeting of L-69 and C-10 groupings of nations. Highlighted the pressing need of comprehensive reform of UNSC membership in both permanent and non-permanent categories.”

    “Called for Text Based Negotiations in the IGN process to achieve concrete outcomes in a fixed timeframe. Thank PM Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and Grenadines for his exemplary leadership of L-69. Laud colleagues from C-10 for their enthusiastic participation today,” he added.

    During the L.69 Annual Ministerial Meeting, the ministers reiterated the urgent need to make the Security Council more representative, transparent, efficient, effective, democratic and accountable, and recognised that the Summit of the Future provided an opportunity for renewed commitment to Security Council reform, according to MEA press release.

    In a press release, MEA stated, “Against the backdrop of the Summit of the Future, the leaders of the AU Committee of 10 (C-10) participated in this annual High-Level meeting to exchange views on the status of the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) on Security Council Reform.”

    The Ministers stressed the indispensable role to be played by developing countries in safeguarding the effectiveness, credibility and relevance of the Security Council’s decisions and outcomes.

    In a press release, MEA stated, “They underscored that, for reform to be transformative, there must be greater representation of the Global South, especially for underrepresented and unrepresented regions and groups, such as Africa, Asia-Pacific and Latin America and the Caribbean, in both the permanent and non-permanent categories of membership.”

    The ministers expressed their support for continuing discussions on the issue of representation of cross-regional groups, including Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The leaders reaffirmed their support for the Common African Position, as espoused in the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration.

    The ministers expressed that the Common African Position is a manifestation of the principle of African Solutions for African Challenges and reiterated the proposed elements as the only way to sufficiently redress the historical injustices done to Africa.

    In a press release, MEA stated, “The Ministers recognized that further delays in a comprehensive reform of the Security Council directly impacts the credibility and legitimacy of the United Nations. They further renewed their commitment to demonstrating the necessary political will to achieve the widest possible political acceptance on the five clusters set forth in GA Decision 62/557.”

    Jaishankar also met Ralph Gonsalves and called it the “best way of starting a day.” “Meeting PM Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent & the Grenadines is the best way of starting a day,” he posted on X.

    Jaishankar met Bhutanese counterpart DN Dhungyel at the L-69 meeting. Taking to X, he stated, “Nice to see @FMBhutan DN Dhungyel at the L-69 meeting.”

    He also had a quick chat with his Brazilian counterpart, Mauro Vieira. In a post on X, he stated, “Quick chat with FM Mauro Vieira of Brazil ahead of the IBSA & BRICS meetings at #UNGA79 today.”

    EAM Jaishankar, who is currently on a visit to the US, met several delegates and diplomats on the sidelines of UNGA, including Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Nurtleu, Morocco Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, Belgium Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, and Swiss Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, and others on Wednesday. (ANI)

    EAM, Lavrov discuss urgent international issues

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York and discussed key matters on the bilateral cooperation agenda and urgent international issues.

    The urgent international issues discussed included preparations for the BRICS Summit and “Ukraine settlement,” a Russian Foreign Ministry statement said.

    Jaishankar and Lavrov agreed to continue coordinating interactions between Russia and India within the key multilateral formats.

    “The two Ministers discussed key matters on the bilateral cooperation agenda, as well as urgent international issues, including preparations for the upcoming #BRICS Summit in Kazan, the Ukraine settlement, as well as the situation in the Asia-Pacific Region in connection with the Western attempts to bring NATO elements into this region,” the statement said.

    Jaishankar said he and Lavrov discussed bilateral cooperation and regional issues. “Met FM Sergey Lavrov this afternoon at #UNGA79. Discussed our bilateral cooperation and regional issues,” he posted on X.

    It was the second meeting between two leaders within a month. Jaishankar and Lavrov held a meeting on the sidelines of the India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Saudi Arabia on September 9.

    Jaishankar, who is currently on a visit to the US, met several delegates and diplomats on the sidelines of UNGA, including Kazakhstan Foreign Minister Nurtleu, Morocco Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, Belgium Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, and Swiss Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, among many others.

    Jaishankar held a meeting with the Belgian PM and discussed manufacturing and technology cooperation as well as exchanging their views on the situation in Ukraine amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

    “Glad to meet PM Alexader De Croo on the sidelines of UNGA 79 today. Discussed manufacturing and technology cooperation. Also exchanged views on Ukraine,” he said in a post in X.

    Jaishankar also held talks with Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis and discussed an array of topics, including shipping, energy, mobility, connectivity, and defence.

    Jaishankar also met UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and held talks with him on strengthening the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

    “Good meeting with UK FS David Lammy on the sidelines of UNGA 79. Carried forward our conversations on strengthening the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Also discussed the conflict in Ukraine,” Jaishankar said in another post in X.

    Jaishankar also met his Australian counterpart, Penny Wong. Taking to X, he wrote, “Catching up with Quad partner FM Senator Penny Wong at UNGA79.” (ANI)

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  • Jaishankar confident in enduring ties with Bangladesh, Sri Lanka

    Jaishankar confident in enduring ties with Bangladesh, Sri Lanka

    During a discussion at Asia Society in New York, Jaishankar emphasised India’s focus on fostering economic regionalism in South Asia….reports Asian Lite News

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has stated that India does not aim to control the political dynamics of its neighboring countries. While India may not always find those dynamics desirable, it remains confident that the fundamental realities of interdependence will ensure constructive and positive relationships. His comments come at a time of political changes in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, raising questions about their ties with India.

    During a discussion at Asia Society in New York, Jaishankar emphasised India’s focus on fostering economic regionalism in South Asia. Addressing concerns about India’s “non-reciprocal” approach to its neighbors, he highlighted how India stepped in to stabilize Sri Lanka’s economy during its crisis without attaching political conditions. He noted that India’s involvement was driven by the desire to prevent an economic collapse at its doorstep, rather than any political agenda.

    Jaishankar further remarked that each neighboring country has its own political dynamics and choices, and it is not India’s intention to dictate those choices. Instead, he expressed confidence that nations would find ways to adjust and collaborate constructively despite their differing internal politics.

    Earlier this week, Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, marking the first high-level engagement between India and Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus after Sheikh Hasina’s ouster as Prime Minister, last month.

    The meeting focused on “strengthening” the bilateral ties between the two neighbouring countries and addressed mutual interests.

    “Had a meeting with Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain of Bangladesh in New York this evening. The conversation focussed on our bilateral ties,” EAM Jaishankar posted on X.

    The two ministers met only a few hours after the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry had lodged a “diplomatic protest” with the Indian High Commission in Dhaka on Monday in response to recent remarks made by Union Home Minister Amit Shah “regarding Bangladeshi nationals” during his visit to Jharkhand.

    The Bangladesh MFA’s statement has received massive criticism, and it is expected that EAM Jaishankar would have conveyed New Delhi’s disappointment over the issue during his meeting with Hossain, which was also attended by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

    Even though India continues to bat for normalisation of relations following last month’s events and continued targetting of the Hindu community in Bangladesh, the interim government in Dhaka has been accused of making groundless statements over the past few weeks.

    Last month, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) dismissed as “baseless” the allegations levelled by Bangladesh’s interim government that India is “deliberately” letting more water flow into the neighbouring country.

    “We have seen media reports of the opening of Farakka barrage gates that will allow the flow of over 11 lakh cusecs of water downstream of the river in its natural course into the Ganga/Padma river. This is a normal seasonal development that takes place due to increased inflow from heavy rainfall in the Ganga river basin catchment areas upstream,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on August 26.

    New Delhi expressed concerns over “fake videos, rumours and fear-mongering to create misunderstanding”, stating that the entire data, as per protocol, is shared with the concerned Joint River Commission officials in Bangladesh on a regular and timely basis.

    “It is to be understood that Farakka is only a barrage and not a dam. Whenever the water level reaches the pond level, whatever inflow comes that passes. It is merely a structure to divert 40,000 cusecs of water into the Farakka canal that is carefully done using a system of gates on the main Ganga/Padma river, while the balance water flows into the main river to Bangladesh,” he added while firmly countering the rumours with facts.

    There was also intense media speculation about a meeting between PM Modi and Mohammad Yunus taking place on the sidelines of the UN ‘Summit of the Future on Monday’. However, it was not scheduled due to the different arrival and departure timings of the leaders.

    Asked about this at a news conference, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, “The Prime Minister is leaving in a few minutes from now. The Chief Advisor of Bangladesh is not here yet, so there hasn’t been any possibility of a meeting on this occasion.”

    B’desh to hold talks with India over sharing river water

    Bangladesh is preparing to initiate negotiations with India on sharing the waters of transboundary rivers, an adviser to the interim government announced on Wednesday.

    A deal on the Teesta river water-sharing was initially set for signing during former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s 2011 visit to Dhaka.

    However, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee refused to support the agreement, citing a water shortage in her state.

    Speaking at a seminar titled Bangladesh’s Fair Share of Water in Shared Rivers, Water Resources Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan stated that the negotiations with India will proceed soon, taking into account public opinion.

    The outcomes will be shared transparently with the people. She emphasized that while water-sharing between nations is complex, the exchange of essential information—like rainfall data and river structures—should not be politicized.

    Sharing such data is vital to preventing harm and protecting lives.

    Rizwana also highlighted that while Bangladesh cannot approach international courts unilaterally, both countries must do so collectively.

    She described data sharing as a humanitarian issue and reiterated that Bangladesh would clearly and firmly assert its claims.

    Moreover, she stressed the importance of safeguarding the country’s internal rivers, describing them as “living entities.”

    Earlier this month, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus had similarly voiced the interim government’s commitment to resolving the Teesta water-sharing dispute with India, emphasizing the need for clarity on the water-sharing terms, even if the agreement is not ideal.

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  • Jaishankar holds talks with G4 leaders on UNSC reform

    Jaishankar holds talks with G4 leaders on UNSC reform

    G4 reaffirmed its commitment for an urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council through text-based negotiations…reports Asian Lite News

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with his counterparts from Brazil, Germany, and Japan in New York to reaffirm the commitment of the G4 grouping of nations to urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council through text-based negotiations.

    Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, and Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

    The G4 countries comprise Brazil, Germany, India and Japan.

    The External Affairs Minister shared a picture of the meeting on X and wrote, “Glad to join the traditional #G4 Foreign Ministers Meeting along with colleagues @ABaerbock , @Kamikawa_Yoko and Mauro Vieira in New York today. G4 reaffirmed its commitment for an urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council through text-based negotiations.”

    In addition to the G4 meeting, Jaishankar also held talks with Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil, discussing energy, health, and economic cooperation between India and Venezuela.

    “Pleased to meet FM @yvangil of Venezuela today on the sidelines of #UNGA79. Discussed energy, health and economic cooperation, as well as reformed multilateralism,” Jaishankar said on X.

    On Monday, Jaishankar had met with Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Touhid Hossain and discussed a range of issues related to mutual interests between Bangladesh and India.

    On the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the two diplomats discussed a range of issues on strengthening the long-standing ties between the neighbouring nations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh, announced the meeting in X, formerly Twitter, emphasising the ongoing partnership between the two countries.

    Bangladesh’s interim government leader, Muhammad Yunus, is in New York to attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session.

    The general debate of the 79th session of the General Assembly opens on September 24 and will continue through September 28 and conclude on September 30.

    The theme for the general debate of the 79th session of the General Assembly is “Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations,” according to UN Nations official statment.

    Opening amid growing calls for more international cooperation to address challenges such as climate change, poverty and inequality, while also tackling the fallout from ongoing conflicts and global health crises, the session will see world leaders heading to New York to deliver their statements in the iconic Assembly Hall. (ANI)

    EAM meets officials from across world  

    External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar has met officials from Asia, Europe and Latin America on the sidelines of the UN high-level meetings to promote bilateral relations and to exchange views on international and regional issues.

    He started with new Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barro of France, a country with which India has close strategic and diplomatic ties.

    He wrote on X after the meeting that they had “a useful exchange of views on major regional issues”. Barro was appointed foreign minister last week by Prime Minister Michel Barnier who took over after the snap elections.

    After his meeting with “dear friend” European Union Commissioner for Climate Action Wopke Hoekstra, EAM Jaishankar posted on X, “Appreciate his support for deepening India-European Union partnership”. Hoekstra wrote on X, “We look forward to closely working together and further enhancing India-European Union relations in the domains of geopolitics, climate and business.”

    Spain’s Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, said on X after meeting EAM Jaishankar, “India is an essential global actor and priority partner for Spain.” “We discussed our bilateral relations, including trade and culture. Also the situation in the Middle East, Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific,” he posted.

    Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg of Malta, posted on X that he discussed with EAM Jaishankar the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting next month in Samoa and how the group to which both countries belong can find “global solutions to pressing global and regional challenges, from sustainable development to the protection of human rights”.

    They also talked about “further intensifying synergies in areas of mutual interest, including ongoing efforts to expand trade relations between our two countries”, he added.

    The EAM said on X after meeting Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos, “We focussed on ongoing developments in West Asia and their larger implications.” Ukraine came up during the meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi of Moldova, a neighbour of that country.

    Jaishankar wrote, “Discussed deepening our partnership in pharmaceuticals, health, education, capacity building and trade.”

    Following his meeting with Bolivia’s Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda, the EAM posted that they spoke about “advancing our bilateral cooperation”. “Our bilateral partnership has been steadily progressing in various dimensions,” EAM Jaishankar wrote after meeting Hugh Hilton Todd, the foreign minister of Guayana, a country with a large diaspora.

    Closer to India, Yemen’s Vice President Aidaros Alzubidi wrote on X after his meeting with the EAM that they had an “important discussion on overlapping interests on regional stability and maritime security, including in the Red Sea”.

    “India’s role on the global stage is critical and a partnership I look forward to developing,” he added. Jaishankar wrote on X that he assured him of “India’s support for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Yemen”.

    Strategically located on the Red Sea, Yemen is torn by a civil war and its fallout puts shipping in the area at risk.

    ALSO READ: Jaishankar Cements Global Ties at UN

  • Jaishankar Cements Global Ties at UN

    Jaishankar Cements Global Ties at UN

    Spain’s Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, said after meeting EAM Jaishankar, “India is an essential global actor and priority partner for Spain.”…reports Asian Lite News

    External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar has met officials from Asia, Europe and Latin America on the sidelines of the UN high-level meetings to promote bilateral relations and to exchange views on international and regional issues.

    He started with new Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barro of France, a country with which India has close strategic and diplomatic ties.

    He wrote on X after the meeting that they had “a useful exchange of views on major regional issues”.

    Barro was appointed foreign minister last week by Prime Minister Michel Barnier who took over after the snap elections.

    After his meeting with “dear friend” European Union Commissioner for Climate Action Wopke Hoekstra, EAM Jaishankar posted on X, “Appreciate his support for deepening India-European Union partnership”.

    Hoekstra wrote on X, “We look forward to closely working together and further enhancing India-European Union relations in the domains of geopolitics, climate and business.”

    Spain’s Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares, said on X after meeting EAM Jaishankar, “India is an essential global actor and priority partner for Spain.”

    “We discussed our bilateral relations, including trade and culture. Also the situation in the Middle East, Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific,” he posted.

    Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg of Malta, posted on X that he discussed with EAM Jaishankar the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting next month in Samoa and how the group to which both countries belong can find “global solutions to pressing global and regional challenges, from sustainable development to the protection of human rights”.

    They also talked about “further intensifying synergies in areas of mutual interest, including ongoing efforts to expand trade relations between our two countries”, he added.

    The EAM said on X after meeting Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos, “We focussed on ongoing developments in West Asia and their larger implications.”

    Ukraine came up during the meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Mihai Popsoi of Moldova, a neighbour of that country.

    EAM Jaishankar wrote, “Discussed deepening our partnership in pharmaceuticals, health, education, capacity building and trade.”

    Following his meeting with Bolivia’s Foreign Minister Celinda Sosa Lunda, the EAM posted that they spoke about “advancing our bilateral cooperation”.

    “Our bilateral partnership has been steadily progressing in various dimensions,” EAM Jaishankar wrote after meeting Hugh Hilton Todd, the foreign minister of Guayana, a country with a large diaspora.

    Closer to India, Yemen’s Vice President Aidaros Alzubidi wrote on X after his meeting with the EAM that they had an “important discussion on overlapping interests on regional stability and maritime security, including in the Red Sea”.

    “India’s role on the global stage is critical and a partnership I look forward to developing,” he added.

    EAM Jaishankar wrote on X that he assured him of “India’s support for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Yemen”.

    Strategically located on the Red Sea, Yemen is torn by a civil war and its fallout puts shipping in the area at risk.

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  • ‘75% of disengagement problems sorted out with China’

    ‘75% of disengagement problems sorted out with China’

    Jaishankar also underlined how India and China never had an easy relationship in the past.

    Highlighting the progress on border talks with China, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that 75 per cent of disengagement problems with Beijing are sorted out; however, the two nations “still have some things to do.”

    Jaishankar also underlined how India and China never had an easy relationship in the past.

    “We did not have an easy relationship in the past. What happened in 2020 was in violation of multiple agreements, the Chinese moved a large number of troops to the Line of Actual Control. We, in response, moved our troops up.. Some progress on border talks with China. 75 per cent of disengagement problems are sorted out. We still have some things to do,” Jaishankar said during his conversation with Ambassador Jean-David Levitte at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy on Thursday.

    “If there is a solution to disengagement and there is a return to peace and tranquillity, we can look at other possibilities. That is the immediate issue,” he further added.

    Jaishankar said that the two countries had a difficult relationship in the past and spoke about 2020 when the Indian and Chinese troops clashed at Galwan Valley.

    He also described the India-China relationship as “complex” and highlighted the long-standing struggle in the trade issues between the two nations and said that the economic relationship with China has been “unfair and imbalanced.”

    The EAM said, “It (India-China relations) is a very complex relationship… They had bad periods in history. Both of them are reviving and are rejuvenating in a way… They are the only two countries that have a population of more than a billion. And what happens normally when any country rises is that it has a ripple effect on the neighbourhood. These two countries also have the honour of being each other’s neighbours. So each one’s rise has a ripple impact… So if you take the totality of this, you can understand why I selected a safe expressive word like complex.”

    Notably, India and China held the 31st meeting of the WMCC in Beijing on August 29, and the two sides had decided to jointly uphold peace and tranquillity on the ground in border areas in accordance with relevant bilateral agreements and protocols.

    The two sides had a “frank, constructive and forward-looking” exchange of views on the LAC situation and also agreed to intensify contact through diplomatic and military channels, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

    Meanwhile, the EAM further said that apart from border issues, the two nations also face difficulties in other sectors, including technology, telecom, and digital.

    “I think there are larger issues in respect of India-China. We have a long struggle with the trade issue… The economic relationship with China has been very unfair. It has been very imbalanced that we don’t have market access there. They have much better market access here in India. We have many concerns today in various areas, like technology, telecom, and digital.”

    Jaishankar arrived in Switzerland on September 12 after concluding his visit to Germany and Saudi Arabia.

    Earlier on Wednesday, Jaishankar met German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin and conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s personal greetings to him there. (ANI)

  • Jaishankar meets Chancellor Scholz in Germany

    Jaishankar meets Chancellor Scholz in Germany

    Jaishankar paid an official visit to Germany from September 10-11….reports Asian Lite News

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin and conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s personal greetings to him there.

    Sharing a post on X about his meeting Scholz on Wednesday, Jaishankar wrote, “Honoured to meet Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin today. Conveyed the personal greetings of PM Modi.”

    “Look forward to his visit to India for the 7th Intergovernmental Consultations,” Jaishankar added.

    Jaishankar paid an official visit to Germany from September 10-11.

    It was his third bilateral visit to Berlin since taking over as EAM and the second visit to Germany this year following his last visit to Munich in February 2024 to attend the Munich Security Conference (MSC).

    During the visit, Jaishankar met his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock. The two leaders reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations, particularly with a view to laying the groundwork for the upcoming 7th India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) in New Delhi in October 2024.

    Both the ministers noted with satisfaction that the 18th Asia Pacific Conference (APK) of German Businesses is to be held in New Delhi next month, which would further deepen the business-to-business partnership between India and Germany, the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official press release.

    Jaishankar and Baerbock also discussed regional and global matters of mutual interest, including Ukraine, Indo-Pacific and West Asia.

    The External Affairs Minister’s engagements in Germany did not cease just here. He also had a discussion with Foreign and Security Policy Advisor to the German Chancellor, Jens Ploetner, and Boris Pistorius, Federal Minister of Defence, during which both sides re-affirmed their commitment to further deepen the strategic, defence and security cooperation between India and Germany.

    Jaishankar also met Friedrich Merz, Chairman of CDU/CSU Parliamentary Group; Michael Roth, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Bundestag (German federal parliament); and select Parliamentarians representing various political parties in Germany, the MEA said in its release.

    They discussed ways to deepen bilateral engagement, including parliamentary cooperation, as well as key regional and global developments.

    Moreover, during the visit, the EAM was invited as Guest of Honour to address the German Ambassadors and important business leaders during the Annual Conference of German Ambassadors.

    India and Germany have had a strategic partnership since 2000 and will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of the strategic partnership next year.

    The cooperation between the two nations today transcends a wide range of sectors spanning trade, investment, defence, science, technology, innovation, sustainability, renewable energy, emerging technologies, development cooperation, culture, education, mobility and people-to-people ties. (ANI)

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  • Jaishankar holds talks with Russian counterpart Lavrov

    Jaishankar holds talks with Russian counterpart Lavrov

    Jaishankar on Sunday arrived in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, to attend the First India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting….reports Asian Lite News

    On the sidelines of the India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar held a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday.

    Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, “A useful conversation with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia today on the sidelines of the GCC meeting.”

    Notably, Jaishankar also held a meeting with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, and discussed key global issues, including the G20 agenda, BRICS cooperation, and the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

    Sharing a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, “Nice to meet FM Mauro Vieira of Brazil on the sidelines of the Gulf Cooperation Council Ministerial Meetings. Discussed G20, BRICS and the Ukraine conflict.”

    Jaishankar on Sunday arrived in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, to attend the First India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

    Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Protocol Affairs, Abdulmajeed Al Smari, welcomed Jaishankar in Riyadh. Jaishankar is on a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia from September 8-9.

    Upon arrival in Riyadh, Jaishankar, in a post on X stated, “Arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to take part in the First India – Gulf Cooperation Council Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Thank Abdulmajeed Al Smari, Deputy Minister for Protocol Affairs for the warm reception.”

    The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a press release, said, “India and the GCC enjoy a deep and multifaceted relationship, in areas including political, trade & investment, energy cooperation, cultural and people-to-people ties.”

    “The GCC region has emerged as a major trading partner for India and is home to a large Indian expatriate community, numbering around 8.9 million. The Foreign Ministers meeting will be an opportunity to review and deepen institutional cooperation between India and the GCC across various sectors,” it added.

    After concluding his visit to Riyadh, Jaishankar is scheduled to travel to Germany for a two-day visit from September 10-11. This will be his first bilateral visit to Berlin. (ANI)

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