Finnish President hails India's growing global influence in talks with EAM Jaishankar
Helsinki, June 12
Finnish President Alexander Stubb described India as an "influential actor" on the global stage and underscored the importance of hearing New Delhi's perspective during a meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on the sidelines of the Kultarana Talks in Helsinki.
Following the meeting, Stubb took to X and posted, "We met today at Kultaranta with India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. We discussed the situation in the Middle East and the Persian Gulf, efforts to end Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, and the upcoming G7 summit. India is an influential actor whose views are important to hear."
The two leaders exchanged perspectives on the evolving geopolitical situation and underscored the importance of diplomacy in navigating an increasingly uncertain global environment.
Sharing the details of the meeting, EAM took to X and said, "Pleased to meet President Alexander Stubb of Finland on the sidelines of the Kultaranta Talks. We exchanged views on the evolving geopolitical situation and underscored the importance of diplomacy in navigating an increasingly uncertain global environment."
"India and Finland remain committed to advancing our Strategic Partnership in Digitalization and Sustainability while strengthening coordination in multilateral fora on issues of shared interest," he added.
EAM participated in a discussion with Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen and Foreign Minister of State Lana Nusseibeh of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 'Emerging Powers and the New Geopolitical Competition' at the Kultaranta Talks.
During the discussions, EAM Jaishankar noted that ongoing conflicts are imposing costs and triggering changes far beyond the regions and agreed that the international community must continue efforts to mitigate their consequences and create conditions for diplomacy.
He emphasised the importance of de-risking and diversifying supply chains to build greater resilience and redundancy in an increasingly volatile world.
The EAM also reiterated that India's energy choices are guided by the national interest, with purchases based on affordability and availability.
He highlighted the centrality of India's relations with the Gulf region, underpinned by strong people-to-people ties, energy cooperation, and a growing strategic and defence partnership.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is great to see – India's balancing act between East and West is impressive. But I hope we don't become too cozy with European powers while forgetting our own backyard. Need to keep focus on South Asia and Indo-Pacific too.
The "de-risking supply chains" bit is key. After Covid and the Ukraine war, everyone realizes they can't depend on just one country for critical supplies. India is perfectly positioned to be that reliable alternative manufacturing hub. Abhi time hai, leverage karo!
Talk is cheap – let's see concrete outcomes. Finland is a small but respected EU nation. If this leads to more tech transfer, defense deals, or climate partnerships, then we can pop the champagne. Otherwise, it's just another photo op. But Jaishankar is right to push for diplomatic solutions.
Love that India is being heard on both Ukraine and Middle East issues. Our traditional strength has always been non-alignment and dialogue. Hope this recognition translates to stronger multilateral cooperation on climate change and digital governance. Jai Hind! 🙏
The "energy choices based on affordability" line is significant. Western nations keep lecturing us about Russian oil, but they should look at their own sanctions mess. India is doing what's best for 140 crore people – pragmatic foreign policy at its best. Stubb clearly respects that.
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