During the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar conducted a series of bilateral meetings with foreign ministers from Mexico, Cyprus, and several Pacific Island nations. These meetings aimed at strengthening India’s global partnerships and expanding its diplomatic outreach.
Meeting with Mexican Foreign Minister
Jaishankar met with Juan Ramón de la Fuente, Mexico’s Foreign Minister, where both leaders agreed to build on recent exchanges and provide a new direction for India-Mexico bilateral relations. The discussions focused on enhancing economic, cultural, and strategic ties.
Discussions with Cyprus Foreign Minister
Jaishankar also held talks with Constantinos Kombous, Cyprus’ Foreign Minister. The discussions:
Reviewed progress following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Cyprus.
Emphasized India’s support for a lasting solution to the Cyprus issue in line with UN resolutions and frameworks.
Jaishankar invited Kombous for an official visit to India soon, further strengthening diplomatic relations.
Engagement with Pacific Island Nations
On the sidelines of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Jaishankar met with leaders from several Pacific countries:
Marshall Islands: Foreign Minister Kalani Kaneko
Tuvalu: Foreign Minister Paulson Panapa
Palau: State Minister Gustav Aitaro
These discussions led to an agreement to deepen India’s partnership with the Pacific region, focusing on climate cooperation, trade, and sustainable development.
Jaishankar also met Solomon Islands Foreign Minister Peter Shanel Agovaka and Tonga Prime Minister Dr. Aisake Valu Ake, discussing mutual interests and opportunities for enhanced regional collaboration.
Significance of the Meetings
These bilateral engagements highlight India’s active global diplomacy and its commitment to:
Strengthening ties with Latin America and Europe.
Expanding cooperation with Pacific Island nations.
Advancing India’s strategic, economic, and climate-related objectives on the global stage.
Conclusion
Through these strategic meetings at UNGA 80, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reinforced India’s position as a key global partner and demonstrated India’s commitment to multilateral cooperation, regional stability, and sustainable development.
