External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a series of high-level bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in France, engaging with counterparts from Canada and Germany while also addressing key global challenges.
EAM Jaishankar met Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, with discussions centred on strengthening India-Canada ties across multiple sectors, including trade, critical minerals, agriculture, and education. The two leaders also exchanged views on the evolving situation in West Asia.
Highlighting the meeting, Anand said the discussions followed up on the momentum generated during the recent India visit of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and focused on advancing bilateral cooperation.
Talks with Germany on West Asia Developments
On the sidelines of the summit, Jaishankar also met German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. The two leaders discussed the situation in West Asia and its wider global implications, while exploring possible diplomatic initiatives.
Wadephul noted that regular engagements between India and Germany reflect the strength of the bilateral partnership and shared concerns over ongoing geopolitical developments.
Call for Urgent Global Governance Reforms
During a session on global governance reforms with invited partners, Jaishankar underscored the urgent need to reform the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He also called for streamlining peacekeeping operations and strengthening humanitarian supply chains.
The minister highlighted concerns of the Global South, particularly in areas such as energy security, fertiliser availability, and food security, amid ongoing global uncertainties.
Emphasis on Resilient Trade Corridors
At another session, EAM Jaishankar stressed the importance of strengthening resilient and diversified trade corridors, citing the impact of conflicts in West Asia.
He pointed to initiatives such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as critical to enhancing global connectivity. He noted that geopolitical uncertainties further reinforce the need for robust supply chains.
EAM Jaishankar also highlighted that India’s free trade agreements with the European Union, EFTA members, and the United Kingdom have enhanced the strategic relevance of IMEC. He added that the initiative has received broad international support and enthusiasm.
(With ANI inputs)
