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Jaishankar, Australia's Wong Discuss West Asia Conflict, Indo-Pacific Ties

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, exchanging assessments on the ongoing West Asia conflict and Indo-Pacific issues. The discussion is part of India's sustained diplomatic outreach to key global partners amidst escalating regional tensions following recent military strikes and retaliations. Jaishankar has also recently engaged with counterparts from Israel, the UAE, Russia, Iran, France, and Oman on the situation. These talks underscore India's active diplomatic role in navigating the complex security landscape in West Asia.

Key Points: Jaishankar, Australian FM Discuss West Asia, Indo-Pacific

  • Call focused on West Asia conflict & Indo-Pacific
  • Part of India's diplomatic outreach amid tensions
  • Jaishankar also spoke with Israeli, UAE counterparts
  • Discussions follow US-Israeli strikes and Iranian response
2 min read

EAM Jaishankar, Australian counterpart Wong discuss West Asia conflict, Indo-Pacific

EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Australian counterpart Penny Wong on the West Asia conflict and Indo-Pacific issues amid regional tensions.

"Shared our assessments of the ongoing West Asia conflict. Also discussed Indo-Pacific issues. - S Jaishankar"

New Delhi, March 20

External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong held a telephonic conversation on Friday, discussing the ongoing conflict in West Asia and Indo-Pacific issues.

Following the conversation, EAM Jaishankar taking to his X handle wrote, "Very pleased to speak with my Australian counterpart Penny Wong. Shared our assessments of the ongoing West Asia conflict. Also discussed Indo-Pacific issues."

The talks between the two ministers come amid ongoing conflict in West Asia which erupted following the US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, which killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and top military officials. In response, Iran launched drone and missile attacks targetting the US and Israeli facilities, regional capitals and allied forces in West Asia.

Over the past few days, EAM Jaishankar has also spoken with his counterparts from several other nations, including Russia, Iran, France and Oman as India remains in touch with the governments of the region and other key partners amid the tense security situation in West Asia.

On Thursday, EAM Jaishankar spoke to his Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar over phone and discussed the ongoing conflict in West Asia and its repercussions.

"Had a telecon with FM Gideon Saar of Israel this evening. Exchanged views on the ongoing West Asia conflict and its many repercussions," EAM Jaishankar posted on X.

EAM Jaishankar also held a meeting with UAE's Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy on Thursday, discussing latest developments related to the conflict in West Asia.

During the meeting, Jaishankar also thanked the UAE Government for taking care of the Indian community.

"Pleased to meet UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem Al Hashimy this afternoon. Thanked the UAE Government for taking care of the Indian community. Discussed the latest developments pertaining to the conflict in West Asia," EAM Jaishankar posted on X.

On March 16, EAM Jaishankar held a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Belgium and discussed developments in West Asia and Ukraine.

He expressed appreciation for Leyen's insights on contemporary global developments.

"A pleasure to call on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen this afternoon. Her highly successful State Visit to India this January marks a turning point in our ties. We are following up vigorously on it. Appreciate her insights on contemporary global developments," Jaishankar posted on X.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The Indo-Pacific discussion with Australia is crucial. With China's increasing assertiveness, we need strong partnerships like the Quad to ensure a free and open region. Hope these talks lead to concrete outcomes on maritime security.
R
Rohit P
While I appreciate the diplomatic outreach, I sometimes worry our foreign policy is too reactive. We need a clearer, long-term strategic vision for West Asia beyond managing crises. Just my two paise.
S
Sarah B
As someone living in Delhi, stability in West Asia directly impacts our oil prices and economy. Glad India is talking to all sides - Iran, Israel, UAE. This conflict is bad for everyone.
V
Vikram M
The fact that we can talk to the US, Russia, Iran, and Israel all in the same week shows our unique position. No other major power has this kind of access. It's a huge diplomatic asset for India.
K
Kavya N
Thank you UAE for looking after our people! 🙏 So many Indian families have loved ones working in the Gulf. Their safety during such tensions is the most important thing. Hope the talks lead to de-escalation.

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