At the 78th UNGA session, India’s Minister of External Affairs, S. Jaishankar, emphasized the need for a more equitable and democratic world order. He highlighted India’s G-20 presidency as a platform for diverse interests and ended the era where a few nations dominated the global agenda.
In his address to the General Assembly on September 26, Mr Jaishankar acknowledged the importance of the rules-based order and the U.N. Charter. However, he noted that a few nations continued influencing the agenda and norms.
Mr. Jaishankar emphasized the necessity of a fair, equitable, and democratic world order.
He stressed the importance of preventing rule makers from dominating rule takers, called for the prevention of “vaccine apartheid,” and advocated for climate action that considers
historical responsibilities involve wealthy countries providing substantial financial support for addressing climate change.
In a week marked by continued focus on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Mr. Jaishankar addressed another significant issue.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that the Indian government was involved in the assassination of a Khalistani separatist leader in British Columbia in June this year.
He also emphasized the need to combat terrorism and extremism without political bias, alluding to countries like Pakistan, China, and Canada, which India accuses of supporting separatist movements.
He stressed respecting territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs without selective application. Jaishankar highlighted India’s role in the G-20 presidency, emphasizing the need for multilateral institution reform.
He noted that COVID-19 and ongoing conflicts had hindered socio-economic progress. He also pointed out global divides, calling for inclusive agendas. He linked this approach to India’s G-20 presidency and advocated for the African Union’s inclusion in the G-20 to inspire U.N. Security Council reform.
