EAM Jaishankar calls for diversified supply chains and greater international cooperation amid ongoing conflicts

Participating in a discussion on “Emerging Powers and the New Geopolitical Competition” at the Kultaranta Talks in Finland, Dr Jaishankar said the impact of conflicts extends far beyond the regions where they occur. He said there is broad agreement that the international community must continue efforts to mitigate the consequences of conflicts and create conditions conducive to diplomacy.      On energy security, Dr Jaishankar reiterated that India’s energy choices are guided by national interest and that purchases are based on considerations of affordability and availability.      The External Affairs Minister said the centrality of the Gulf region in New Delhi’s foreign policy is underpinned by strong people-to-people ties, energy cooperation, and a growing strategic and defence partnership.

Highlighting the growing momentum in India–Europe ties, Dr Jaishankar noted that India and the European Union had this year concluded negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement, signed a Strategic and Defence Partnership, and finalised a Comprehensive Mobility Cooperation Framework. He said these developments reflected the growing depth of the relationship.

Earlier, Dr Jaishankar arrived in Finland from Bulgaria on the concluding leg of his two-nation tour to participate in the Kultaranta Talks. The annual dialogue, hosted by Finnish President Alexander Stubb, brings together senior leaders and policymakers to discuss global and regional security challenges.

The External Affairs Minister and Finnish President Alexander Stubb exchanged views on the evolving geopolitical situation and underscored the importance of diplomacy in navigating an increasingly uncertain global environment. They met on the sidelines of the Kultaranta Talks in Finland.      In a social media post, the Minister said that India and Finland remain committed to advancing their Strategic Partnership in Digitalisation and Sustainability, while strengthening coordination in multilateral fora on issues of shared interest.

On the sidelines of the talks, Dr Jaishankar also met UAE Assistant Foreign Minister Lana Nusseibeh. They reviewed progress in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the UAE and exchanged views on regional issues of mutual interest.