India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, delivered a powerful speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), addressing key global issues while positioning India as a leader and advocate for the Global South. Jaishankar emphasized that the time has passed when only a few nations controlled the global agenda and called for a more inclusive and equitable system of global governance.
In his speech, Jaishankar stressed the importance of developing countries having a greater role in shaping global policies. He called for a shift in power dynamics, urging global governance to become more inclusive. He also highlighted critical issues such as vaccine inequity and climate change, advocating for greater fairness and responsibility from developed nations.
Jaishankar termed the vaccine distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic as “vaccine apartheid,” criticizing how developed nations reserved large quantities of vaccines while developing countries struggled to access them. He also stressed that developed nations, being the largest historical emitters, must take greater responsibility in addressing climate change, rather than placing the burden on developing nations.
The Minister emphasized India’s evolution from its policy of non-alignment to becoming a “Vishwa Mitra” (Global Friend), bridging divides and providing solutions on the world stage. He highlighted India’s leadership at the G20, including the successful initiative to make the African Union a permanent member, and called for similar reforms in the United Nations Security Council to reflect today’s geopolitical realities.
Jaishankar also touched on terrorism and extremism, stating that political convenience cannot justify terrorism or violence. His remarks were seen as a subtle reference to recent diplomatic tensions, particularly in light of ongoing issues between India and Canada.
Concluding his speech, Jaishankar reiterated the need for international organizations like the United Nations to reform and adapt to contemporary realities. He emphasized India’s vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” advocating for global cooperation to address shared challenges and create a more equitable world.
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