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EAM Jaishankar Engages New Zealand, Others on Indo-Pacific Security at ASEAN Manila

EAM S Jaishankar met New Zealand's Winston Peters in Manila to discuss Indo-Pacific security and maritime cooperation. He also held bilateral talks with Thailand, Canada, Singapore, and Russia counterparts during ASEAN meetings. Discussions covered deepening ties, Myanmar, Ukraine conflict, and Gulf situation. Jaishankar reiterated India's concern for Indian seafarers' safety in talks with Russia's Sergei Lavrov.

EAM Jaishankar, New Zealand counterpart discuss Indo-Pacific security and maritime cooperation

Manila, July 22

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting with his New Zealand counterpart Winston Peters in Manila on Wednesday, discussing Indo-Pacific security situation and maritime cooperation.

"A useful conversation with FM Winston Peters of New Zealand ASEAN Manila. Shared perspectives on the Indo-Pacific security situation and discussed enhancing our maritime cooperation," EAM Jaishankar wrote in a post on X following the meeting.

Earlier in the day, EAM Jaishankar met Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow, with talks focussed on bilateral ties.

"Had a good meeting with DPM and FM Sihasak Phuangketkeow of Thailand Manila ASEAN. Our discussion centered around deepening bilateral engagements. Also exchanged views on the developments in Myanmar," EAM Jaishankar posted on X.

EAM Jaishankar is on a two-day visit to Philippines to participate in Foreign Minister level Meetings under the ASEAN framework, including the ASEAN-India, East Asia Summit (EAS) and ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Meetings.

EAM Jaishankar also held a meeting with his Canadian counterpart Anita Anand in Manila and noted that the cooperation between the two nations have been steadily growing.

"Appreciate the discussion with Canada FM Anita Anand this afternoon. India-Canada cooperation has been steadily growing. Our conversation focused on achieving the goals for the relationship set by our Prime Ministers," EAM Jaishankar posted on X.

External Affairs Minister met Singaporean counterpart Vivian Balakrishnan and expressed appreciation for his insights and assessments on the region and global developments.

"Had a good lunch conversation with FM Vivian Balakrishnan of Singapore this afternoon in Manila. Always appreciate his insights and assessments on the region, as also on global developments," EAM Jaishankar posted on X.

He also held a meeting with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, and reiterated India's strong concern about the safety of Indian seafarers in the region.

During the meeting, the two ministers discussed various aspects of bilateral ties, the Ukraine conflict and the Gulf situation.

"An in-depth review of our bilateral relations with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia. Reiterated our strong concern regarding the safety of Indian seafarers in the region. Discussed various aspects of our partnership, including trade and investment, energy and connectivity, science and technology, and mobility. Also exchanged views on the Ukraine conflict and the Gulf situation," EAM Jaishankar wrote on X.

— IANS

Reader Comments

Priya S

Everyone is talking about Indo-Pacific, but what about the common Indian? We need more focus on trade deals that benefit our farmers and small businesses, not just geopolitical games. Just saying. 🤷‍♀️

James A

As an Australian living in India, it's great to see India engaging with Quad and ASEAN partners like New Zealand. Maritime cooperation is key for trade security. China's assertiveness makes these dialogues crucial. Well done, EAM.

Vikram M

I appreciate the discussions with Russia about Indian seafarers' safety. That's a real humanitarian issue. But why no mention of Indian students stuck in conflict zones? Need holistic approach to diaspora welfare. 🙏

Sneha F

Jaishankar ji is a rockstar! From Singapore to Canada to Russia, he's managing multiple relationships perfectly. India's rise on global stage is unstoppable. Proud moment for all Indians. 🚀🇮🇳

David E

Interesting to see India balancing ties with both Russia and the West simultaneously. The conversation with Lavrov about Ukraine and Gulf shows India's independent foreign policy. Smart diplomacy, though it makes some nervous.

Rohit L

Maritime cooperation is great, but let's not forget the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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