New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday called for a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict zone “as soon as possible.” Speaking at the First India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Jaishankar highlighted that the situation in Gaza is the “foremost concern.”
Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s consistent stance on the issue. He said that India’s position has been principled and consistent. He further said that while India condems acts of terrorism and hostage-taking, it is deeply pained by the ongoing civilian casualties. Jaishankar said that any response must adhere to humanitarian law principles. He urged a ceasefire “as soon as possible.”
Regarding the broader issue, Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for a two-State solution to resolve the Palestinian conflict. He said India has actively contributed to building Palestinian institutions and capacities. In response to humanitarian concerns, India has provided relief and bolstered support for UNRWA, he added.
Jaishankar stresses importance of cooperation
Jaishankar said that it is diversity that highlights the importance of friendships. He cited the pandemic’s impact on global interconnectedness. He aslo said that shared challenges, such as health security, food security and maritime security, demonstrate the importance of cooperation.
Jaishankar further said that emerging demands, including AI, electric mobility and green growth, require collaborative human resource sharing. He also discussed the value of cooperation on connectivity amidst conflict and tensions, particularly in a multipolar world where mutual support for each other’s aspirations is crucial.
On India’s GCC ties
The minister said that the India-GCC relationship’s rich historical, cultural and values-based foundation. Thie partnership has evolved into a multifaceted collaboration encompassing economics, energy, defense, technology, education and people-to-people ties, he said.
Jaishankar identified the “3Ps” – People, Prosperity, and Progress – as a framework for understanding the India-GCC partnership. He acknowledged the contributions of about 9 million Indians living and working in GCC countrie who serve as a vital link between the countries. He expressed gratitude for the welfare and comfort ensured for the people