Jaishankar Calls for Greater Global South Cooperation at UNGA

External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar has called for greater cooperation among Global South countries to address geopolitical tensions, economic challenges, climate-related shocks and pressures on the multilateral system.

Addressing a meeting of Global South countries on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, Jaishankar said the global situation was marked by increasing conflicts, pressure on supply chains and trade, fragmented investment flows, growing debt vulnerabilities and inadequate development finance.

He called for cooperation to address challenges related to supply chains, finance and connectivity. He also urged countries to work towards preventing disruptions or manipulation of energy availability and prices, strengthening food security and ensuring stable supplies of grain and fertilisers.

Jaishankar also highlighted the need to promote fair economic and trade practices, strengthen industrialisation and production capabilities, secure maritime commons and improve the safety and security of seafarers and commercial shipping.

On artificial intelligence, he stressed the need to manage the changes brought by the technology in a way that does not create new divisions. He also called for greater representation of Global South countries in international decision-making structures.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar also met Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. According to Jaishankar's social media post, their discussions covered the Gulf situation, the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the Ukraine conflict. The two sides also discussed expanding bilateral cooperation and trade ties.

Jaishankar also addressed the India-CELAC Foreign Ministers' Meeting during the UN High-Level Week. He called for stronger economic and development partnerships between India and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), saying India-CELAC trade had crossed $50 billion annually.

Jaishankar highlighted India's economic and technological capabilities and said the country's engagement with the Global South reflected its stated commitment to development cooperation and shared prosperity. He cited India's assistance in areas including livelihood projects in the Caribbean, disaster response, medical support and the supply of medicines to countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.

He said India and CELAC had complementary strengths, with India offering technology, pharmaceuticals, skilled human resources and digital capabilities, while CELAC has opportunities in areas including critical minerals, sustainable energy, agriculture and food resources.

Jaishankar also suggested considering an upgrade of the annual India-CELAC Business Summit from next year to further strengthen business, investment and development cooperation.