On the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Ambassador Sibi George, met Carl Skau, Acting Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP). The two officials discussed the evolving global landscape and challenges to global humanitarian efforts. This meeting highlights India's ongoing engagement with international organizations to address pressing global issues.
Ambassador Sibi George and Carl Skau's discussion focused on the complexities of global humanitarian efforts. The meeting comes at a time when the world faces numerous challenges, including food insecurity, climate change, and geopolitical tensions. India's involvement with the WFP underscores its commitment to contributing to global humanitarian efforts and finding solutions to these pressing issues.
On a separate occasion, Ambassador Sibi George also met Apostolos Tzitzikostas, EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism. They discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in the tourism, hospitality, and transport sectors as part of the broader India-EU partnership. This meeting highlights the expanding bilateral partnership between India and the European Union.
Ambassador George also welcomed the adoption of the United Nations Declaration on Sea Level Rise. He emphasized India's ongoing efforts concerning coastal resilience, mangrove preservation, and disaster-resilient infrastructure. This declaration is a significant step towards addressing the existential threats posed by sea level rise, particularly for vulnerable island and coastal states.
Addressing the 'High-Level Plenary Meeting on Addressing the Existential Threats Posed by Sea Level Rise' during the 81st session of the UNGA, Ambassador George underscored the crucial need for equity and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities. He also highlighted the vital significance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and stable maritime zones.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also raised concerns over attacks on seafarers at the UNGA. He emphasized that safety must not be compromised. This concern is particularly relevant given the importance of maritime security for global trade and commerce.
India continues to engage actively with international organizations and partners to address pressing global challenges. Through its participation in the UNGA, India is contributing to the development of solutions to these challenges and reaffirming its commitment to global cooperation and humanitarian efforts.
Key points
- India and the World Food Programme discuss global humanitarian challenges at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York.
- Ambassador Sibi George meets with EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism to strengthen cooperation in tourism, hospitality, and transport sectors.
- India emphasizes the need for equity and cooperation to address the existential threats posed by sea level rise.
