Image Credits- India Today
At the Munich Security Conference, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in discussions with various foreign counterparts, including Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, to assess bilateral ties and global challenges. Amidst strained relations following allegations by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, both ministers exchanged views on enhancing bilateral relations and understanding the global situation. Jaishankar, in a statement on social media, highlighted the focus of their conversation on the present state of bilateral ties.
The Munich Security Conference, held from February 16 to 18, witnessed Jaishankar’s participation in several bilateral meetings. He met with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock to discuss global challenges and preparations for the next India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations. Additionally, Jaishankar engaged with Argentina’s Foreign Minister Diana Mondino to explore economic and political cooperation opportunities. He also held discussions with Greek Minister of National Defence Nikos Dendias, focusing on major security challenges worldwide. Furthermore, Jaishankar met with European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell to exchange perspectives on the current global situation and anticipated Borrell’s visit to India.
In another significant meeting, Jaishankar engaged with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, where they discussed various regional issues, including the situation in West Asia, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific region. The ongoing progress in bilateral ties between India and the United States was also reviewed during their interaction.
Commencing his engagements at the conference, Jaishankar held discussions with UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron, covering diverse aspects of India-UK bilateral cooperation and addressing global and regional concerns. Furthermore, Jaishankar met with Bulgaria’s Deputy Prime Minister to discuss the growing bilateral relationship and exchanged views on the Ukraine conflict.
Concluding his series of engagements, Jaishankar also interacted with Peru’s Foreign Minister Javier Gonzalez Olaechea, focusing on significant reforms within the United Nations and exploring avenues for enhancing economic cooperation between India and Peru.
Overall, Jaishankar’s participation in the Munich Security Conference underscored India’s commitment to engaging with key global partners, addressing bilateral concerns, and contributing to discussions on critical international issues.
