External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed the 81st United Nations General Assembly, emphasizing the need for reformed multilateralism. He stated that the world is moving towards a multi-polar order, and large sections of humanity cannot be excluded from global decision-making processes. Jaishankar asserted that the post-1945 global order is giving way to new realities, and the process of adjustment, accommodation, and acceptance will not be easy.
Jaishankar highlighted that the movement towards a more democratic future cannot be halted. He stressed that peace in a pluralistic order requires civil conversations, broad-based consultations, and transparent decision-making. The External Affairs Minister emphasized that large sections of humanity cannot be kept away from the global decision-making process, making the case for reformed multilateralism stronger day after day.
The global system is witnessing a "weaponization of everything," with finance, market access, supply chains, technology, resources, and connectivity being used as tools of leverage. This has impacted trust and goodwill among nations. Jaishankar noted that after eight decades of the UN, this should have become second nature, but instead, a mindset of extreme competition has set in, undermining institutions and establishing choke points.
Jaishankar also highlighted India's efforts in improving health, nutrition, education, and basic infrastructure, which have contributed to advancing the prospects of one-sixth of humanity. He stated that India's inclusive growth and progress have lifted the global SDG outcomes. The External Affairs Minister emphasized that each member of the UN must ask themselves what they can do to address the current state of the world.
The External Affairs Minister's address at the UNGA was part of a series of high-level meetings. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed support for India's permanent UNSC bid at the UNGA. Other world leaders also shared their perspectives on global issues, including the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the impact of extreme heat linked to the super-El Niño.
Jaishankar's call for reformed multilateralism is seen as a significant push for changes in the global order. The current global landscape is characterized by new realities, and the need for adjustment and accommodation is becoming increasingly important. The External Affairs Minister's emphasis on civil conversations, broad-based consultations, and transparent decision-making is critical in this context.
The 81st United Nations General Assembly saw several key discussions on global issues. The focus was on finding solutions to pressing problems, including the need for reformed multilateralism, attacks on seafarers, and the impact of extreme weather events. The assembly provided a platform for world leaders to share their perspectives and work towards a more equitable and peaceful world order.
Key points
- Jaishankar calls for reformed multilateralism at the UNGA.