External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday called for greater cooperation among Global South countries to address challenges ranging from supply chain disruptions and energy security to food security, artificial intelligence and maritime safety.
Chairing a high-level meeting of like-minded Global South countries and friends on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Jaishankar said the global landscape was marked by rising conflicts and geopolitical tensions, pressure on supply chains and trade, fragmented investment flows and growing debt vulnerabilities.
He also flagged inadequate development finance, intensifying climate shocks and growing strain on the multilateral system and international norms.
The minster highlighted that Global South countries should work together to reject chokepoints in supply chains, finance and connectivity, while preventing the manipulation of energy availability and prices that could threaten energy security.
He called for steps to strengthen food security by addressing challenges in the supply of grains and fertilisers, and advocated fair economic and trade practices to enhance industrialisation and production capabilities.
Jaishankar also highlighted the need to secure maritime commons, including the safety and security of seafarers and commercial shipping.
On technology, Jaishankar said countries should work together to manage the transformations brought about by artificial intelligence and prevent new divisions.
He further called for greater inclusion of Global South countries in decision-making structures dealing with issues that directly affect them.
"We must forge closer economic, technological & environmental cooperation, use existing platforms to highlight our concerns, while striving for Reformed Multilateralism," Jaishankar said.
