In New York, at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting, Dr. S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister, strongly addressed the issue of terrorism. He unequivocally stated India’s position: there should be no tolerance or concessions towards terrorism. He described terrorism as the greatest threat to global peace and development and stated that nations combating it are, in essence, serving the entire international community.
Jaishankar expressed concern about the current global situation, noting the decline of peace and development. He highlighted that the Global South is suffering greatly due to crises in energy, food, and fertilizer security. He cited the Ukraine war and the Gaza conflict, demonstrating how these conflicts are placing pressure on national economies through issues of supply and cost.
He clearly stated that peace is essential for development, but undermining development will not foster peace. Jaishankar criticized certain countries for applying double standards at the international level. He argued that applying different standards in similar situations impedes the path to peace. He emphasized that diplomacy and dialogue are the most effective tools for resolving conflicts, rather than the display of force or an arms race.
The Foreign Minister emphasized the severe impact of the Ukraine and Gaza wars on the Global South, noting disruptions in supply chains and logistics, which have increased costs for many countries. Jaishankar also raised questions about the use of double standards, stating that peace enables development, and hindering development does not lead to peace.
He noted that some nations are in a position to talk with all parties involved. He proposed that such nations should be encouraged and included in the peace restoration process by the international community. He also questioned the limits of the United Nations and other multilateral institutions, stressing that current events highlight the need for urgent reforms within these bodies, including the UN.
Jaishankar delivered a clear warning from India: the world can no longer take a passive approach to terrorism and conflict. He stressed that instability in energy and resources is devastating for economically vulnerable nations and exacerbates the difficulties in achieving peace.
