India’s S Jaishankar Highlights Strong Ties with Gulf Cooperation Council in Riyadh
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized the critical role of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in global energy supply during the inaugural India-GCC Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue. He highlighted India’s rapid economic growth and its importance in future global demand.
Jaishankar stated, “The GCC is a cornerstone of the global energy supply. India is one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing markets. Much of the future demand is going to come from us. Our deeper collaboration will help in stabilising markets, driving innovation and enhancing energy security.”
He also mentioned the potential for partnership in renewables, technology, health, space, and education, emphasizing that the relationship is built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for the future. “Our meeting today is not just an occasion to reflect on our achievements but an opportunity to chart an ambitious and far-reaching course for the future,” he added.
Jaishankar underscored the historical and cultural ties between India and the GCC, describing the relationship as rooted in a rich tapestry of shared values. He introduced the framework of the three Ps – People, Prosperity, and Progress – as the bedrock of the relationship.
He also addressed the ongoing conflict in Gaza, calling it a “foremost concern” for India. He condemned acts of terrorism and hostage-taking while expressing deep pain over the death of innocent civilians. Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for a ceasefire and a two-state solution to the Palestinian issue.
Jaishankar arrived in Riyadh on Sunday for a two-day visit to attend the First India-GCC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. He was welcomed by Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for Protocol Affairs, Abdulmajeed Al Smari.
Doubts Revealed
S Jaishankar -: S Jaishankar is India’s External Affairs Minister. He is responsible for managing India’s relationships with other countries.
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) -: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is a group of countries in the Middle East that work together on economic and political issues. The members include Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman.
Riyadh -: Riyadh is the capital city of Saudi Arabia. It is a major city in the Middle East where important meetings and events often take place.
global energy supply -: Global energy supply refers to the production and distribution of energy resources like oil and gas that are used by countries around the world. The GCC countries are major suppliers of these resources.
economic growth -: Economic growth means an increase in the production of goods and services in a country. It usually leads to more jobs and better living standards for people.
inaugural -: Inaugural means the first time something is happening. In this case, it refers to the first India-GCC Joint Ministerial Meeting.
historical and cultural ties -: Historical and cultural ties refer to the long-standing relationships and shared traditions between India and the GCC countries. These ties have developed over many years through trade, migration, and cultural exchanges.
conflict in Gaza -: The conflict in Gaza refers to the ongoing fighting and tensions between Israel and Palestinian groups in the Gaza Strip. It is a serious issue that affects many people in the region.
foremost concern -: Foremost concern means something that is very important and needs immediate attention. In this context, it means that the conflict in Gaza is a top priority for India.
Foreign Ministers’ Meeting -: A Foreign Ministers’ Meeting is a gathering of officials who manage a country’s international relations. They discuss important issues and work on building better relationships between their countries.
