S Jaishankar Calls for a More Inclusive and Effective United Nations at UN General Assembly
New York [US], September 29: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized the need for a United Nations that is effective, efficient, and representative during his address at the 79th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
Key Points from Jaishankar’s Speech
Jaishankar highlighted that the global order is diverse and pluralistic, noting that the UN has grown from 51 members to 193. He stressed that the UN must evolve to address contemporary issues and cannot remain outdated.
He stated, “Large parts of the world cannot be left behind when it comes to deciding the key issues of our times. An effective and efficient UN, a more representative UN and a UN fit for purpose in the contemporary era is essential.”
Global Cooperation and the Global South
Jaishankar emphasized the importance of global cooperation through sharing experiences and pooling resources. He also highlighted the concerns of the Global South, mentioning that development plans and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets are drifting away due to various global challenges.
He said, “Unfair trade practices threaten jobs, just as unviable projects raise debt levels… Technology advancements, which have long been a source of hope, are now equally a factor of anxiety. Climate events occur with greater intensity and frequency. Food security is as worrisome as health security.”
India’s Response to Global Challenges
Jaishankar outlined India’s measures to address these challenges, focusing on vulnerable groups, expanding employment opportunities, and creating replicable templates for governance and public services. He mentioned that India has provided 495 million Mudra loans to small businesses, with 67% of them going to women.
He also stressed the importance of empowering the Global South to voice its concerns and come together, noting that India has convened three Global South Summits, the most recent in August 2024.
Jaishankar concluded by highlighting India’s contributions to global well-being, including undertaking projects in 78 nations, providing resources to neighbors, and responding to humanitarian situations.
Doubts Revealed
S Jaishankar -: S Jaishankar is India’s External Affairs Minister. He is responsible for managing India’s foreign relations and international affairs.
United Nations -: The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945. It aims to promote peace, security, and cooperation among countries.
UN General Assembly -: The UN General Assembly is a gathering of all the member countries of the United Nations. They meet to discuss and work on international issues.
79th session -: The 79th session refers to the 79th annual meeting of the UN General Assembly. Each session is a yearly event where countries discuss global matters.
Global South -: The Global South refers to countries in Africa, Latin America, Asia, and Oceania. These countries are often less economically developed compared to the Global North.
