Jaishankar Urges Global Unity Against Terrorism at UNGA Meeting

At the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held on September 21, 2023, during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, delivered a powerful message advocating for global unity against terrorism. He emphasized the pressing challenges faced by the Global South, particularly in relation to energy, food, and fertilizer security, which have been exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

Dr. Jaishankar underscored the critical issues surrounding global supply chains and logistics, highlighting that rising costs and access problems have become significant pressure points for many nations. He stated, “Apart from jeopardizing supplies and logistics, access and cost themselves have become pressure points for nations. Double standards are in evidence.” This remark reflects a growing concern among countries about inequitable responses to global crises.

Call for Action Against Terrorism

During his address, Dr. Jaishankar articulated a strong stance on terrorism, describing it as a “persistent threat to development.” He asserted that the international community must show neither tolerance nor accommodation towards terrorist activities. “Those who act against them on any front render a larger service to the international community as a whole,” he stated. This declaration reinforces India’s commitment to combating terrorism as a cornerstone of its foreign policy.

Dr. Jaishankar pointed out the visible limitations of multilateralism and the United Nations in addressing current global challenges, stressing the urgent need for reform. “The international situation is volatile, both politically and economically. We, as members of G20, have a particular responsibility to strengthen its stability and give it a more positive direction,” he noted. His call for reform highlights the necessity for a more effective global governance structure to tackle contemporary issues.

Advocating for Dialogue and Diplomacy

Addressing the interconnectedness of conflict, economic pressures, and terrorism, Dr. Jaishankar warned that increasing uncertainty around energy and essential resources could destabilize an already fragile economic environment. He urged the global community to “move the needle towards dialogue and diplomacy, not in the opposite direction towards further complications.” This appeal reflects India’s approach to fostering constructive international relations.

In the context of rising trade tensions and global uncertainties, Dr. Jaishankar’s remarks serve as a reminder of India’s commitment to fairness, justice, and inclusive development. His participation in the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the international community today.

As nations grapple with these ongoing challenges, the need for coordinated action and mutual support has never been more critical. Dr. Jaishankar’s address at the UNGA not only reinforces India’s role on the global stage but also highlights the collective responsibility of nations to confront terrorism and ensure sustainable development.