News Brief
Nayan Dwivedi
Jan 20, 2024, 12:17 PM | Updated 12:17 PM IST
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In his address at the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reinforced India's commitment to global collaboration, pitching India as 'Vishwa Mitra'—a friend of the world.
Jaishankar emphasized India's enduring belief in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, viewing the world as a family, as he addressed the challenges faced by countries in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts.
"Gaza, in particular, is the focus of our concern", said EAM Jaishankar
Highlighting the profound changes since the last NAM meeting, Jaishankar underscored the need for a united response to address contemporary global challenges.
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He also advocated for a multipolar world, economic decentralisation, and cultural rebalancing where all heritage is mutually respected.
The address outlined various 'practical' steps, including the creation of regional economic hubs, resilient supply chains, predictable mobility and trusted data flows for sustainable development.
While addressing the pressing issue of conflicts impacting global stability, Jaishankar said, "The conflict in Gaza is understandably uppermost in our minds. This humanitarian crisis requires a sustainable solution that gives immediate relief to those most affected. We must also be clear that terrorism and hostage taking are unacceptable. At the same time, international humanitarian law must always be respected by all States."
As NAM enters its seventh decade, the External Affairs Minister urged member states to be bold in seeking their due and pressing their demands.
He also emphasised India's role as the 'Vishwa Mitra', saying that New Delhi will always be with Global south countries to help them.
"When Covid struck, we shared vaccines with a 100 nations while still vaccinating our own. As natural disasters happened, we have often been first responders for the developing world. In chairing the G20, we chose to convene and draw strength from the Global South. As Vishwa Mitra (friend of the world) India will always be there, to share," he said.
Nayan Dwivedi is Staff Writer at Swarajya.