India’s vision of fostering collaboration on the global stage remains central to its foreign policy strategy
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in a series of impactful bilateral meetings during his three-day visit to Rome, aimed at strengthening India’s diplomatic and strategic partnerships. The minister, who is attending the 10th Mediterranean Dialogues Conference (MED) and the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Outreach Session in Fiuggi, met counterparts from the UK, France, Ukraine, Lebanon, and Croatia on Monday (November 25, 2024).

Reinforcing India-UK Ties
EAM Jaishankar began the day by meeting British Foreign Secretary David Lammy. The two leaders discussed key facets of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including cooperation in technology, green energy, trade, and mobility. They also exchanged perspectives on regional developments in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia.

“Appreciate the steady momentum in India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” he posted on media platform X. “Discussed deepening cooperation in technology, green energy, trade, mobility, as well as ongoing developments in Indo-Pacific and West Asia.”

Strengthening Indo-French Cooperation
EAM Jaishankar also met French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot. The dialogue focused on bilateral ties, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, Ukraine, and broader global issues.

“Nice to meet FM @jnbarrot of France in Rome today,” he wrote on X. “A useful stock-taking of our bilateral partnership. Also discussed Indo-Pacific, Ukraine, and global issues.”

Supporting Ukraine Amid Conflict
In a significant interaction, EAM Jaishankar met Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. The two leaders exchanged views on advancing bilateral cooperation and reiterated the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

“Good to meet FM of Ukraine @andrii_sybiha in Rome today. Useful exchange on advancing our bilateral cooperation. Reiterated India’s support for dialogue and diplomacy,” EAM Jaishankar wrote on X.

Sybiha acknowledged India’s role in advocating for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “India’s global role is critical to advancing a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine,” he posted. The two ministers also discussed Russia’s strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure and agreed to hold an intergovernmental commission meeting in the coming months.

Deepening Relations with Lebanon
Additionally, EAM Jaishankar held a productive meeting with Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib. They discussed regional challenges, including the ongoing conflict in West Asia, and explored ways to enhance bilateral cooperation.

EAM Jaishankar highlighted India’s participation in peacekeeping operations in Lebanon as part of the UNIFIL mission. “Given our capacity to engage various parties, we are always willing to contribute meaningfully to any international diplomatic endeavors,” he stated during the 10th edition of the Rome MED Conference.

Engaging with Croatia
On the sidelines of the Mediterranean Dialogues, EAM Jaishankar met Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman. The discussion reinforced India’s commitment to enhancing bilateral ties and exploring new areas of collaboration. “Appreciate seeing FM @grlicradman of Croatia at the @RomeMEDialogues,” he posted. “His sentiments for our ties are always positive.”

Addressing Global Challenges at the MED Conference
During his keynote speech at the Rome MED Mediterranean Dialogues, EAM Jaishankar expressed concern over the escalating conflict in West Asia and reiterated India’s call for a ceasefire.

“The situation in the Middle East is deeply concerning, both for what has happened and what may still come,” he remarked. “India unequivocally condemns terrorism and hostage-taking and regards large-scale civilian casualties in military operations as unacceptable. International humanitarian law cannot be disregarded.”

He also reaffirmed India’s commitment to a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict and emphasized the need for a long-term resolution addressing the future of the Palestinian people.

On Ukraine, EAM Jaishankar stressed that “no solution is going to emerge from the battlefield” and reiterated India’s consistent advocacy for dialogue and diplomacy. Highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s engagement with both Russian and Ukrainian leadership, he emphasized India’s readiness to contribute to international peace efforts.

India’s Vision for a Multipolar World
EAM Jaishankar also discussed global trends, including the shift towards a technology-driven future, greener growth, and increased talent mobility. He emphasized the importance of re-globalization, rebalancing, and multipolarity in shaping the world’s future.

“A closer and stronger relationship between India and the Mediterranean will serve both of us,” he remarked, underlining the significance of India’s strategic ties with the Mediterranean region.

EAM Jaishankar’s visit to Rome highlights India’s proactive diplomacy in addressing global challenges, fostering regional stability, and strengthening bilateral ties. His meetings with key counterparts from Europe, the Middle East, and Ukraine underscore India’s growing role as a global mediator and advocate for dialogue, diplomacy, and sustainable development.

As he participates in the G7 Outreach Session in Fiuggi and continues his bilateral engagements, India’s vision of fostering peace and collaboration on the global stage remains central to its foreign policy strategy.