India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, delivered a powerful and thoughtful speech at the 80th UN General Assembly session, addressing today’s complex international challenges with clarity and vision. His words reflected India’s role not just as a rising power but as a global partner committed to peace, development, and reform.
First, Jaishankar made a strong call against terrorism, calling it a shared global threat. He stressed that nations openly using terror as state policy and glorifying terrorists must be firmly condemned. The focus should be on cutting off terror financing and relentlessly applying pressure on the entire terror ecosystem. His message? Those who support terror sponsorship will eventually suffer the consequences—a blunt reminder to certain states that harbor terrorism.
Turning to the world stage, Jaishankar didn’t mince words about the United Nations. He described the UN as being in crisis—gridlocked by conflicts, resource shortages, and human rights violations, weakening belief in multilateralism. He urged member nations to move beyond cynicism and push for meaningful reforms, including expanding both permanent and non-permanent seats to make the Security Council truly representative. He emphasized India’s readiness to take on greater responsibility in this global effort.
Highlighting India’s contributions globally, Jaishankar painted a vivid picture of how the country supports peace and development: Indian soldiers in peacekeeping missions, doctors and teachers advancing human welfare, industries producing affordable products, and tech experts spreading digitization worldwide. India’s commitment extends beyond politics—it’s about practical support and shared growth.
He also addressed ongoing conflicts like those in Ukraine and Gaza, appealing for an immediate end to hostilities. India advocates for all sides to engage peacefully, positioning itself as a nation ready to support any peace initiative. These are turbulent times, and Jaishankar’s message was clear: peace and diplomacy are more essential than ever.
Delving into India’s domestic transformation, Jaishankar highlighted the sweeping changes under PM Modi’s leadership. The digital public infrastructure revolutionizes governance and service delivery. Startups, innovation, and microfinance are reshaping society, while infrastructure development improves both business and everyday life. India isn’t just growing—it’s evolving to share its success stories and tools to aid global development.
On technology, he put special focus on Artificial Intelligence. India sees AI not just as tech advancement but a means to improve human welfare responsibly, with inclusion and impact as guiding principles for the upcoming 2026 AI Summit hosted by India.
Three core concepts shaped India’s global approach, as Jaishankar explained:
1. *Atmanirbharta* (self-reliance): Building strengths in manufacturing, pharma, space, and digital innovation to benefit India and the world.
2. *Atmaraksha* (self-protection): Zero tolerance for terrorism, strong border defense, international partnerships, and protection of Indian communities globally.
3. *Atmavishwas* (self-confidence): Proud of its population, civilization, and economy, India will act as a free and independent voice of the Global South.
Wrapping up, Jaishankar urged the international community to stay strong amidst global uncertainty, deepen friendships, and prioritize cooperation. He warned that pockets of prosperity cannot survive amid widespread instability and insisted that common purpose and empathy, embodied by the UN, are the way forward.
This speech was more than diplomacy; it was a reminder of India’s evolving identity and commitment to shaping a more peaceful, just, and cooperative world order.
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