Amid the UN General Assembly in New York, India has maintained an extensive diplomatic engagement strategy. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has engaged with nations from the global north and south across various continents while continuing to strengthen ties with West Asia and Africa.
On Friday, Jaishankar attended a Quad ministerial meeting, held discussions with his Japanese and Australian counterparts, and participated in an IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) ministerial meeting. He also met Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, focusing on connectivity, economic ties, and regional dynamics.
Additionally, Jaishankar met with UK Minister of State Tariq Ahmad for a productive assessment of bilateral relations and discussions regarding recent developments related to Ukraine. This meeting holds significance due to Canada’s recent allegations and the large Sikh diaspora in the UK, including Khalistani groups, along with the UK’s unique relationship with both India and Canada.
On Saturday, Jaishankar held talks with Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, discussing India’s G20 presidency and the progress in bilateral cooperation. Egypt was a guest country at the G20 summit and hosted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June.
Furthermore, Jaishankar met Uganda’s Foreign Minister Odongo Jeje, highlighting the progress in various bilateral initiatives and offering support for Uganda’s upcoming NAM (Non-Aligned Movement) and G77 Presidencies.
Continuing India’s intensified engagement with Cyprus, Jaishankar met with its Foreign Minister Constantinos Kambas, discussing follow-up steps to his visit last December and India’s growing interest in the Mediterranean region.
Lastly, he met with Guinea Bissau’s Foreign Minister Carlos Pereira to discuss expanding their development partnership and boosting trade and investment.
The Minister is scheduled to address a major event on India and the global south, in addition to speaking on the Indian G20 presidency at a separate event during the UN General Assembly.