From 'Vishwa Mitra' to leading global unity, EAM Jaishankar articulates India's vision at the UNGA
In a compelling speech at the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 26, 2023, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar articulated India's vision for a more equitable and cooperative world order.

With a strong assertion, he emphasized that political convenience cannot determine responses to terrorism and extremism. These candid remarks were to emphasize India's consistent stand against terrorism and its belief in unambiguous international norms.

EAM Jaishankar did not name any country, and while such sharp observations usually imply a reference to Pakistan or China, the latest comment is significant as it comes days after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made an allegation about the possibility of an Indian link to the death of pro-Khalistan Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who had been designated a terrorist by India.

“Nor must we countenance that political convenience determines responses to terrorism, extremism and violence. Similarly, respect for territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs cannot be exercises in cherry picking,” EAM Jaishankar said in India’s national statement to the UNGA, as he spoke about a fair and equitable world order.

“In our deliberations, we often advocate the promotion of a rules-based order. From time to time, respect for the UN Charter is also invoked. But for all the talk, it is still a few nations who shape the agenda and seek to define the norms. This cannot go on indefinitely. Nor will it go unchallenged,” he pointed.

Elaborating further, EAM Jaishankar stated, “A fair, equitable and democratic order will surely emerge, once we all put our minds to it. And for a start, that means ensuring that rule makers do not subjugate rule takers. After all, rules will work only when they apply equally to all”.

Addressing the present challenges the world faces, he highlighted the immense strains that Covid-19, ongoing conflicts, and structural inequities have imposed, particularly on the Global South. These pressures, he pointed out, have not only reversed socio-economic gains but have also left nations struggling for sustenance.

Marking India's recent presidency of the G20, he emphasized the nation's vision of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future.' This vision prioritizes collective concerns over the narrow interests of a few. He quoted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intent to bridge divides and promote unity, cooperation, and shared destinies, as encapsulated in the New Delhi G-20 Leaders’ Declaration.

Building on the principles of unity and cooperation, EAM Jaishankar underlined the importance of inclusive diplomacy in these trying times. The sharp polarization between the East and the West, coupled with the ever-widening North-South divide, stresses the need for genuine dialogue and understanding among nations. Traditional methods, where only a handful of countries set the global agenda, are becoming increasingly obsolete in this interconnected world.

The United Nations, he explained, is a testament to the idea that finding common ground is more than just a diplomatic necessity; it's an imperative for global progress. Listening and respecting diverse perspectives aren’t signs of weakness but the very foundation upon which collaborative global solutions can be built. The emphasis is clear: for effective global partnerships, inclusivity and mutual respect are paramount, EAM Jaishankar’s remarks highlight.

Furthermore, his mention of the 'Voice of the Global South’ Summit highlights India's commitment to ensuring that even the traditionally less-heard voices are considered in shaping the future. By amplifying the concerns of 125 nations and bringing them to the forefront of the G20 discussions, India is leading the charge in transforming the dynamics of international dialogue. This inclusivity not only enriches the discourse but also ensures more comprehensive solutions to global challenges.

The inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20, on India's initiative, is another significant step towards broadening representation in global platforms. Such reforms are not just symbolic; they emphasize the essential need for the international community to evolve, recognizing the value of diverse voices in shaping our collective future.

Speaking on global polarization, India’s External Affairs Minister remarked, "The days when a few nations set the agenda and expected others to fall in line are over." Drawing from the ideals of the United Nations, he reiterated the need for nations to find common ground, respect divergent views, and champion cooperative efforts.

India's initiative in inducting the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 was presented as a symbol of its commitment to global inclusivity. Furthermore, Dr. Jaishankar called for the United Nations to similarly reform and make the Security Council more representative and contemporary.

Detailing the achievements from the New Delhi G20 Summit, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar underlined the significance of the Action Plan for Sustainable Development Goals, the Green Development Pact, and the role of Digital Public Infrastructure. Additionally, the spotlight was cast on the transformative effect of initiatives focusing on environmental preservation, gender equality, and technological harnessing.

As he delineated India's commitment to global cooperation, he underscored the nation's transition from non-alignment to being a "Vishwa Mitra" – a friend to the world. This commitment to cooperation was reflected in the nation's collaborations across diverse multilateral platforms. EAM Jaishankar also showcased India's contributions during the pandemic, notably through the Vaccine Maitri initiative, and its broader commitments to global food security, disaster resilience, and sustainable development.

Concluding his address, EAM Jaishankar celebrated India's ongoing Amrit Kaal phase, forecasting a period of accelerated progress and transformation. He highlighted India's unique position as a civilization rooted in deep traditions of democracy, now modernized and tech-empowered.

His final remarks encapsulated India's essence: a blend of tradition and technology, striving for global unity, cooperation, and progress.