India’s External Affairs Minister, Sabahan Yam J. Shanar, addressed the 79th UN General Assembly (UNGA), emphasizing the global need for unity amidst growing tensions. In his speech, he outlined India’s commitment to international cooperation, sustainability, and peace, while condemning terrorism and calling for reform in global multilateralism.
India’s Call for Global Unity and Multilateral Reform
At the 79th United Nations General Assembly, India stood firm in its call for multilateral reform to address the pressing issues facing the global community. With the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and the conflict in Gaza, the message from India’s External Affairs Minister was clear: global unity is paramount.
A World in Crisis: Navigating Challenges
In his speech, Minister Shanar addressed the current global crises affecting countries worldwide. From the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to the war in Ukraine, which is now in its third year, and the escalating conflict in Gaza, he emphasized the dire need for global solidarity.
“The world is yet to recover from the ravages of the pandemic, and now we face wars and conflicts that are pulling us further apart,” Shanar remarked, highlighting the theme of the UNGA session, Leaving No One Behind. He underscored the significance of fair trade, sovereignty, and the need to uphold territorial integrity, as unfair trade practices and unsustainable projects continue to plague developing economies.
Addressing Unfair Trade Practices and Climate Concerns
One of the key points raised by Minister Shanar was the impact of unfair trade practices, which threaten jobs and contribute to rising debt levels in many countries. He called for fair and equitable trade systems that benefit all nations, not just a few.
Additionally, he expressed concern over the global inaction on climate change, particularly from developed nations, who, he claimed, have failed to meet their responsibilities. “Evasion of climate action by developed countries undermines the growth prospects of developing nations,” he stated, pushing for greater accountability and global cooperation in combating climate change.
India’s Leadership: Addressing the Needs of the Global South
Supporting Vulnerable Populations
India’s commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, both domestically and internationally, was central to the speech. Minister Shanar emphasized the country’s efforts in providing piped water, electricity, and cooking gas to millions of households across India, as well as ensuring financial support for farmers and youth.
“In India, the gender gap is closing across various sectors, from health and education to the workplace,” he said. “Our food producers receive financial support twice a year at the click of a button, and skilling the youth remains a top priority for the government.”
Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Financial Inclusion
India has also made significant strides in supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. Minister Shanar highlighted the success of India’s Mudra loan initiative, which has provided over 495 million loans to small businesses in the past decade, with 67% of them going to women.
“Our policies have empowered millions of street vendors and small business owners. In just the last four years, 6.56 million street vendors have benefitted from over 8.85 million Swan loans, with 45% of the recipients being women,” Shanar remarked.
Technology as a Game-Changer for Global Prosperity
Digital Transformation and India’s Global Contributions
India’s transformative digital infrastructure was a recurring theme throughout the speech. From the country’s digital public infrastructure to the People’s Pharmacy initiative, India has been at the forefront of technological advancements aimed at empowering its citizens.
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“India has embraced technology not to dominate, but to empower,” Shanar asserted. He pointed to the country’s success in deploying 5G, sending vaccines worldwide, and becoming a global hub for fintech innovation. This technological growth has created new opportunities for small businesses, farmers, and vendors, making India a global model for inclusive development.
Expanding Digital Public Infrastructure
Minister Shanar further elaborated on India’s digital public infrastructure, noting its role in delivering essential services efficiently and on a vast scale. From housing to nutritional support and healthcare, India’s digital transformation has enhanced the quality of governance and public services.
He added, “We are setting an example of what is possible with the right vision and policies. Our technology is not just improving lives in India, but it’s a model that can be replicated globally.”
India’s Stand Against Terrorism and Cross-Border Threats
Condemning Pakistan’s Terrorism Policy
Minister Shanar did not shy away from addressing regional security concerns. In a direct reference to Pakistan, he condemned its cross-border terrorism policies, stating, “Pakistan’s export of terrorism will never succeed. Their actions have consequences, and they must abandon their longstanding attachment to terrorism.”
He called for the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for its actions and stressed the need for global cooperation in eradicating terrorism.
Globalization and Economic Fairness
Shanar also criticized the current globalization model, which he claimed has led to the over-concentration of production in certain countries, resulting in economic instability in others. He called for democratizing global production and building resilient supply chains that promote widespread prosperity.
“Democratizing global production, building trusted digital services, and fostering open-source culture are key to promoting economic fairness,” he said.
Conclusion
In his address, India’s External Affairs Minister Sabahan Yam J. Shanar provided a powerful and hopeful vision for the future, calling for global unity, multilateral reform, and a focus on the vulnerable. His speech emphasized the importance of collaboration, technological advancement, and economic fairness in building a better world.
“We have the ability to change the world for the better if we come together,” Shanar concluded, leaving the assembly with a sense of optimism and purpose.