NEW DELHI:
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has called on the United Nations to demonstrate leadership in addressing global crises instead of remaining a spectator, stressing the need for reforms to make international decision-making more inclusive.
Speaking at the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan in New Delhi on Sunday, Jaishankar said the need for reformed multilateralism was becoming stronger by the day. He argued that large sections of the world could not be excluded from decisions affecting international peace, security and economic stability. UN Resident Coordinator in India Stefan Priesner was also present at the event, which marked the 75th anniversary of the Chinmaya Mission.
Referring to conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, Jaishankar said their consequences extended well beyond the regions concerned, affecting people, societies and economies around the world. He reiterated India’s position that dialogue and diplomacy were the way forward in resolving international conflicts and said India was ready to work with international partners towards peace.
The minister also highlighted the challenges facing the Global South, describing them in terms of finance, fuel, food and fertilisers. He called for stronger international cooperation and diversified supply chains to reduce economic vulnerabilities.
On terrorism, Jaishankar said its use as an instrument of state policy was unacceptable and called for a stronger global response. He also stressed that artificial intelligence should be developed and used responsibly, with its benefits made accessible beyond a small group of countries and organisations. His remarks underlined India’s call for a more representative global order and a UN capable of responding effectively to contemporary challenges.