External Affairs Minister Dr. S, while jaishankar delivered a comprehensive and firm address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he not only issued a stern warning to Pakistan regarding terrorism but also shared India's perspective on several pressing global challenges. During his speech, Dr. Jaishankar touched upon a wide array of subjects ranging from the menace of terrorism to the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East to the protracted Russia-Ukraine war. His address served as a significant message to the international community, reinforcing India's stance on global security, economic stability, and the rights of the Global South.
Zero Tolerance Against Terrorism
Dr. S. Jaishankar sent a clear and uncompromising message on terrorism, specifically targeting Pakistan without naming it directly. He asserted that arguments attempting to normalize terrorism or claim immunity from its consequences would no longer be accepted by the global community. The External Affairs Minister emphasized the urgent need to hold governments that promote and sponsor terrorism accountable for their actions. He reiterated India's firm stance of zero tolerance against terrorism, stating that there would be no dilution in this approach. Dr. Jaishankar further clarified that friendship and goodwill can't coexist with terrorism, and he called for a concerted global effort to highlight and combat the financial aspects of terror networks to effectively dismantle them. He maintained that India reserves the right to use its defense mechanisms against the threat of terrorism to ensure national security.
India's Vision for Artificial Intelligence
Turning his attention to the digital frontier, Dr. Jaishankar discussed India's approach to Artificial Intelligence (AI). He made a specific reference to the AI Impact Summit held in India in February, highlighting AI as a powerful tool for human empowerment, economic prosperity, and large-scale problem-solving. The Minister advocated for the right of every nation to develop its own AI ecosystem, models, and deployment strategies in alignment with their specific national goals. He positioned AI as a core component of India's partnership agenda with the Global South, emphasizing that technology should serve as a bridge for development rather than a tool for creating new divides. However, he also cautioned against the misuse of AI, noting that it could potentially increase biases and weaken mutual respect if not managed responsibly.
Concerns Over Middle East and Maritime Security
The External Affairs Minister expressed deep concern over the escalating conflicts in the Middle East and their broader implications for international security. He specifically raised the issue of attacks on commercial vessels and sailors in the vast maritime stretch from the Red Sea to the Black Sea. Dr. Jaishankar stated that targeting commercial ships and the seafarers who man them is unacceptable and that the safety of international waterways must never be compromised. He noted with gravity the deaths of sailors from various countries, including India, due to these hostilities. In response to these threats, he mentioned India's involvement in maritime security initiatives alongside Liberia and 23 other partners. He urged all parties involved in the Middle East conflict to exercise restraint and work towards de-escalation to prevent further loss of life and economic disruption.
The Russia-Ukraine Conflict and Global Security
Addressing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which has now entered its 5th year, Dr. Jaishankar expressed India's profound worry over the continuing violence. Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statement at the UNGC, he emphasized that this era of endless war must now give way to a path that leads to the end of the war. India remains supportive of existing initiatives aimed at bringing about a peaceful resolution. The Minister stressed the critical need to ensure the safety of sailors and the uninterrupted supply of food and energy, which have been severely impacted by the conflict. He reaffirmed India's commitment to making every possible effort to safeguard global food and energy security, which are vital for the stability of the international community.
The 4F Crisis and the Global South
Dr. Jaishankar highlighted the severe challenges facing the Global South, which he categorized as the 4F crisis: Food, Fuel, Fertilizer, and Finance. He expressed concern over the impact of Super El Nino, the shortage of fertilizers, and the various obstacles hindering the movement of food grains. The Minister raised the issue of the Global South's right to industrialization and expressed concern over non-market activities and the denial of market access that hamper their growth. He observed that in the current global climate, almost everything is being weaponized, which poses a significant threat to international cooperation. In this context, he reminded the UN of India's role as a First Responder in times of global crises, demonstrating its commitment to collective well-being.
A Multipolar World and the Path to Peace
Concluding his address, Dr. Jaishankar spoke about the transition towards a Multipolar World. He noted that the global order established in 1945 is undergoing significant changes in the face of new geopolitical realities. He argued that in a multipolar system, civilized dialogue, broad consultations, and transparent decision-making are essential. He stressed that a large portion of humanity can't be excluded from global decision-making processes, while the Minister called for a strengthened global commitment to peace, development, and prosperity. Finally, he invoked the timeless message of Mahatma Gandhi, stating that there is no way to peace; rather, peace itself is the way. This served as a final appeal to the world to prioritize diplomatic and peaceful means over conflict and confrontation.