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Jaishankar Pushes IMEC Corridor at G7 Amid West Asia Conflict

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the strategic importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) for ensuring resilient global trade routes during the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in France. He argued that ongoing conflicts in West Asia strengthen the case for such secure supply chains and highlighted how India's recent free trade agreements with the EU, EFTA, and the UK add value to the corridor. Jaishankar also raised pressing global issues, including the urgency of United Nations Security Council reforms and specific energy and food security challenges facing the Global South. On the sidelines, he held substantive bilateral discussions with his counterparts from the United Kingdom and Germany.

Key Points: Jaishankar at G7: IMEC Key for Global Trade Amid Conflict

  • IMEC bolsters global connectivity
  • West Asia conflict underscores need for resilient supply chains
  • India's FTAs enhance IMEC's utility
  • Urgent UNSC reforms & Global South concerns raised
  • Bilateral talks with UK & Germany held
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EAM Jaishankar highlights IMEC's role in strengthening global connectivity amid West Asia conflict

EAM Jaishankar highlights India-Middle East-Europe Corridor's role in resilient supply chains at G7 meeting, discusses FTAs & UNSC reforms.

"The uncertainties arising from the conflicts in West Asia only make a stronger case for more resilient trade corridors. - S. Jaishankar"

Paris, March 27

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasised the importance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor in bolstering global connectivity amid ongoing geopolitical tensions during the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in France.

He noted that the conflict in West Asia reinforces the need for resilient trade routes and secure supply chains.

Addressing the session, EAM Jaishankar highlighted that India's expanding trade agreements with major global partners, including the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and the United Kingdom, have added significant value to IMEC.

Taking to social media platform X on Friday, he posted: "Shared views about IMEC at the second session of the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting with invited partners. The uncertainties arising from the conflicts in West Asia only make a stronger case for more resilient trade corridors and supply chains."

He further stated: "At the same time, India's FTAs with the European Union, EFTA members and the UK have enhanced the utility of IMEC."

EAM Jaishankar also appreciated the growing enthusiasm among international partners to realise the connectivity initiative. He underscored the urgency of reforms within the United Nations Security Council and highlighted challenges faced by the Global South.

"Highlighted the urgency of UNSC reforms, streamlining peacekeeping operations, and strengthening humanitarian supply chains. Specifically raised the Global South's concerns about energy challenges, fertiliser supplies and food security," he said.

On the sidelines, he held bilateral discussions with the UK and German Foreign Ministers. Posting on X, he said: "A good discussion with UK Foreign Secretary, Yvette Cooper, covering both bilateral and global issues."

Following his meeting with the German Foreign Minister, EAM said, "Followed up on our recent telecon with German FM Johann Wadephul."

EAM Jaishankar arrived in France on Thursday for the two-day G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting. On arrival, he posted: "Arrived at Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay, France, to participate in the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting with Partner Countries. Was received warmly by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot for my first bilateral."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally, someone is talking about the Global South's real issues! Food security and fertilizer supplies are critical for our farmers. Hope these discussions translate into concrete action and not just remain diplomatic talk.
R
Rohit P
The FTAs with EU and UK are a big deal. This will create so many jobs and boost our manufacturing sector. IMEC can be a game-changer for Indian exports if implemented well. Let's hope the execution matches the vision.
S
Sarah B
While the corridor idea is promising, I have a respectful criticism. We must ensure that the benefits of such mega-projects trickle down to the common person and small businesses, not just large corporations. The focus on resilient supply chains is excellent, but let's also build resilient local economies.
V
Vikram M
UNSC reform is long overdue. The current structure is from the 1940s! The world has changed. India deserves a permanent seat. Glad our EAM is consistently raising this issue in every forum. Bas ab action hona chahiye.
M
Michael C
Interesting to see India taking such a central role in global connectivity talks. The West Asia conflict does show how fragile existing routes are. A diversified, India-anchored corridor makes immense strategic sense for global trade stability.

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