Jaishankar Meets Rubio in France, Discusses Global Security Issues on G7 Sidelines
PARIS — India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Cernay-la-Ville, describing their interaction as a “useful talk.”
“Useful talk this morning with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio,” Jaishankar said in a post on X following the meeting.
Rubio is in France for the G7 ministerial, where he is expected to engage with counterparts from partner nations on a range of global security concerns. According to the U.S. State Department, discussions are focused on the Russia-Ukraine war, tensions in the Middle East, and broader threats to global peace and stability.
“Heading to France for the G7 Foreign Affairs Ministerial to meet with world leaders about the security concerns we share around the world and opportunities to address the situation in the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine war,” Rubio said ahead of his visit.
Earlier in the day, Jaishankar addressed the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation for global economic security.
“Debated cross cutting threats and sovereignty at the G7 FMM session today. Underscored the importance of freedom of navigation for global economic security. As well as the threat of narco-terror linkages. On Critical Minerals, appreciated ongoing steps to expand cooperation along its value chain,” he said.
Jaishankar also held a brief meeting with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during the gathering.
On Thursday, the Indian minister participated in another session of the G7 meeting with partner countries, where he highlighted the need for reforms at the United Nations Security Council, improvements in peacekeeping operations, and stronger humanitarian supply chains.
He also raised concerns affecting the Global South, including energy challenges, fertilizer availability, and food security.
“The uncertainties arising from the conflicts in West Asia only make a stronger case for more resilient trade corridors and supply chains. At the same time, India’s FTAs with the European Union, EFTA members and UK have enhanced the utility of IMEC. Appreciate the wide support and enthusiasm to realise this important connectivity initiative,” Jaishankar said.
The G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting is bringing together top diplomats from major economies and partner nations to address a range of geopolitical and economic challenges. (Source: IANS)
