In a significant diplomatic encounter, External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, welcomed Dennis Francis, President of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), to New Delhi.
During the reception, Dr. Jaishankar expressed his appreciation for Dennis Francis’s positive sentiments towards India’s prominent roles, including its G20 Presidency and the Voice of Global South Summits.
“So glad to welcome @un_pga Dennis Francis this afternoon in New Delhi. His positive sentiments for our G20 Presidency and Voice of Global South Summits were notable. They have strengthened multilateralism,” EAM Dr. S Jaishankar said.
One of the key areas of consensus during their discussion was also the urgency of reforms within international institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
In addition, the two dignitaries also highlighted the importance of accelerating progress on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and climate action. They recognized that concerted efforts are required to address the pressing issues of our time, including climate change and sustainable development.
“India will strongly support the Summit of the Future Process under his leadership to achieve equitable and ambitious outcomes,” the EAM added.
Visit to Jaipur:
Dennis Francis’s visit to New Delhi followed a vibrant stay in Jaipur, Rajasthan, where he explored UNESCO World Heritage Sites and visited the Jaipur Foot center. The Jaipur Foot organization specializes in providing affordable and accessible prosthetic limbs to millions in need. During his visit to Jaipur, President Francis also met Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, and Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra.
Work-packed itinerary:
Apart from meeting EAM Dr. Jaishankar in New Delhi, the President of the UN General Assembly’s packed itinerary also includes a roundtable discussion on India’s advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). He is also scheduled to deliver a public address at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) on “Multilateralism and Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability” today.
Furthermpre, following his engagements in New Delhi, President Dennis Francis will also travel to Mumbai. There, he will pay tribute at the 26/11 memorial, commemorating the victims of the tragic 2008 Mumbai attacks. He will also visit the National Stock Exchange and participate in an address titled “New Orientation for Reformed Multilateralism,” organized by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).
On the momentous occasion of Republic Day on January 26, President Dennis Francis will participate as a State guest in the Republic Day Parade of Maharashtra, strengthening the diplomatic ties between the United Nations and India.
