Dr. S. Jaishankar Leads High-Level Meeting of Like-Minded Global South Countries in New York, Calls for Reform and Solidarity
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India's External Affairs Minister - Dr. S. Jaishankar Global South Meeting 2025 |
Global South Confronts Mounting Challenges
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| Delegates from Global South countries listening attentively as Dr. Jaishankar highlights shared challenges and collaborative solutions. |
In his opening
remarks, Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the multifaceted challenges confronting the
Global South. He pointed to the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,
ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, extreme climate events, trade
volatility, and the deceleration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
agenda. Most notably, he emphasized that the rights and expectations of
developing countries, which have been meticulously developed over decades, are
now under significant challenge.
Advocating for Reform and Solidarity
Dr. Jaishankar
criticized the current state of multilateralism, noting that international
organizations are becoming ineffective or are being deprived of resources. He
warned that the foundational elements of the contemporary global order are
beginning to disintegrate, and the cost of delaying necessary reforms is
becoming increasingly apparent.
In response, he proposed a collective approach for the Global South, emphasizing:
Fair and Transparent Economic Practices: Promoting democratic production processes to enhance economic security.
Resilient Supply Chains: Reducing dependence on any single supplier or market to mitigate vulnerabilities.
Conflict Resolution: Urgently addressing conflicts that impact food, fertilizer, and energy security.
Protection of Global Commons: Safeguarding maritime shipping routes, humanitarian assistance, and environmental resources.
Leveraging Technology for Development: Utilizing digital public infrastructure to drive progress.
Inclusive Global Governance: Ensuring a fair and level playing field that considers the developmental concerns of the Global South.
Dr. Jaishankar
also emphasized the importance of utilizing existing forums to strengthen
consultations among Global South countries, thereby enhancing solidarity and
collaboration. He encouraged nations to share specific strengths and
experiences, such as advancements in vaccine production, digital capabilities,
education, agricultural practices, and support for small and medium-sized
enterprises.
India's Vision for the Global South
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| Dr. Jaishankar at the podium, stressing the protection of rights and expectations of developing nations amid global uncertainties. |
Dr. Jaishankar
reiterated India's commitment to supporting the Global South in navigating
these challenges. He called for initiatives in areas like climate action and
climate justice that serve the interests of the Global South, rather than those
of the Global North. India's approach emphasizes the importance of
self-reliance, technology adoption, multipolarity, and South-South cooperation,
all of which reinforce each other in shaping a new global landscape.
Broader Implications for Global Diplomacy
The meeting
also served as a platform for India to assert its stance on various global
issues. Dr. Jaishankar criticized leading global powers, particularly the
United States and China, for their inconsistent trade practices. He highlighted
the rise of trade protectionism, erratic tariff regimes, and coercive supply
chain strategies employed by major countries. Emphasizing India's strategic
autonomy, he stated, "Bharat will maintain its freedom of choice,"
underscoring the nation's intent to safeguard its independent economic and
geopolitical decisions.
Furthermore, at
the 80th UNGA session, Dr. Jaishankar questioned the effectiveness of the
United Nations in addressing major international challenges, such as terrorism
and economic conflicts like trade wars. He stressed the urgency of cutting off
both financial and logistical support to terrorist organizations, highlighting
India's concerns over the UN's responsiveness and impact in resolving critical
global issues.
Dr. S.
Jaishankar's leadership at the High-Level Meeting of Like-Minded Global South
Countries in New York exemplifies India's proactive role in advocating for a
more inclusive and equitable global order. By emphasizing solidarity, reform,
and collaborative development, India aims to empower the Global South to navigate
contemporary challenges effectively. This initiative not only strengthens
South-South cooperation but also reaffirms India's commitment to fostering a
just and balanced international system.
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