External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a bold address at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Saturday, where he heavily criticized Pakistan for its support of terrorism and discussed urgent global challenges. From cross-border terrorism to global instability, here are the top 10 key moments from his speech.
1. Pakistan’s Terror Policy Criticized
Jaishankar hit out at Pakistan for its long-standing policy of cross-border terrorism. He warned that such actions would no longer be tolerated and emphasized that consequences are inevitable. He asserted that the real issue now is for Pakistan to vacate illegally occupied Indian territories.
2. Zero Tolerance for Terrorism
The minister reiterated the global need to oppose all forms of terrorism. “Terrorism is antithetical to everything the world stands for,” Jaishankar said, calling for UN sanctions on global terrorists without political obstruction.
3. Global Leaders Must Set the Right Example
Jaishankar stressed that those seeking to lead the world must uphold international laws and principles. “We cannot countenance violations of basic tenets,” he said, urging responsible leadership.
4. Respect for International Law is Key
The UN represents the principles of the world order, and Jaishankar emphasized the importance of respecting international commitments and laws as a path to peace and stability.
5. Unfair Globalization Hurts Economies
He addressed the imbalanced globalization model, pointing out that over-concentrated production has weakened many economies, impacting jobs and social stability, leaving countries vulnerable.
6. Call for Building Resilient Supply Chains
To address global economic challenges, Jaishankar proposed solutions like building resilient supply chains and promoting trusted digital services, all of which contribute to shared prosperity.
7. Urgent Solutions for Ukraine and Gaza Conflicts
Acknowledging the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, Jaishankar urged the international community to act swiftly and find peaceful resolutions, stressing the need for urgent action.
8. A Fractured and Polarized World
The minister painted a grim picture of the current global state, saying the world is “fractious, polarized, and frustrated,” a far cry from the vision the founders of the UN had hoped for.
9. Reforming the UN is Crucial
Jaishankar linked the UN’s paralysis in the face of division and conflict to its inability to address global crises effectively. He called for reforms to the multilateral system to ensure peace, development, and human dignity.
10. India’s Progress: A Model for the World
The minister also highlighted India’s achievements, from providing millions with access to electricity and clean water to closing the gender gap in health, education, and the workplace. Jaishankar presented India as a model of inclusive development that the world can learn from.
Jaishankar’s speech at the UNGA was a direct and forceful call to address terrorism, reform global systems, and seek peaceful solutions to ongoing conflicts. His criticism of Pakistan and his emphasis on global cooperation resonated throughout his address, marking it as a powerful moment in international diplomacy.
