New Delhi, March 27: At the G7 Foreign Ministers’ meeting held in France, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar engaged with his counterparts to address critical issues concerning global economic stability. The importance of freedom of navigation for economic security was underscored during the discussions.
Concerns were raised regarding the growing nexus between Narco-terrorism and the challenges it poses. The meeting also acknowledged efforts to strengthen supply chains of critical minerals, deemed essential for global development.
In a post on the social media platform ‘X’, Dr. Jaishankar stated, “Today at the G7 Foreign Ministers’ meeting, we discussed various threats and sovereignty. Emphasized the significance of freedom of navigation for Global Economic Security and highlighted the dangers arising from the nexus between narco-terrorism. Appreciated the ongoing steps to enhance cooperation regarding critical minerals and their value chain.”
Dr. Jaishankar arrived in France on Thursday for the two-day G7 Foreign Ministers’ meeting, where he met with his counterparts from South Korea, Canada, and Japan. During the meeting, he and Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand discussed advancing bilateral relations and the situation in West Asia.
He emphasized the importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) in strengthening global connectivity amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions during the G7 meeting.
Dr. Jaishankar noted the increased need for robust trade routes and secure supply chains due to conflicts in West Asia. He highlighted that India’s growing trade agreements with major global partners, including the European Union, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and the UK, have significantly added value to the IMEEC.
During the meeting, he also appreciated the growing enthusiasm among International partners to complete connectivity initiatives. He stressed the need for reforms in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and addressed challenges faced by the Global South.
He remarked, “There is a need for UNSC reforms to facilitate peacekeeping operations and strengthen humanitarian supply chains, particularly concerning energy challenges, food supply, and food security concerns of the Global South.”