Jaishankar Highlights India's Energy Security, Supply Chain Resilience and India-EU Cooperation at Kultaranta Talks
Helsinki [Finland], June 11 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday participated in a discussion on 'Emerging Powers and the New Geopolitical Competition' at the Kultaranta talks in Finland. He underlined the global impact of ongoing conflicts, the need for resilient supply chains, India's energy priorities, and the growing strategic partnership between India and the European Union (EU).
The discussion featured Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen and UAE Assistant Foreign Minister Lana Nusseibeh.
In a post on X, sharing details of the discussion, Jaishankar said, "Participated in an engaging discussion with FM @elinavaltonen of Finland and Assistant FM Lana Nusseibeh of the UAE on 'Emerging Powers and the New Geopolitical Competition' at the #KultarantaTalks #Finland."
The EAM noted that the repercussions of ongoing conflicts extend well beyond the regions directly affected. He said, "Noted that ongoing conflicts are imposing costs and triggering changes far beyond the regions." He stressed the importance of diplomatic efforts to address global instability. "Agreed that the international community must continue efforts to mitigate their consequences and create conditions for diplomacy," he added.
Jaishankar also highlighted the growing importance of securing global supply chains amid geopolitical uncertainties. "Emphasised the importance of de-risking and diversifying supply chains, building greater resilience and redundancy in an increasingly volatile world," he said.
On India's energy policy, he reiterated that the country's decisions are driven by national requirements. "Reiterated that India's energy choices are guided by national interest, with purchases based on considerations of affordability and availability," he stated.
Highlighting India's engagement with the Gulf region, Jaishankar underscored the significance of longstanding ties and expanding strategic cooperation. "Highlighted the centrality of India's relations with the Gulf region, underpinned by strong people-to-people ties, energy cooperation, and growing strategic and defence partnership," he said.
The minister also pointed to the changing nature of warfare and the opportunities it presents for enhanced cooperation between India and Europe. "Observed that the character of warfare is evolving rapidly, with new technologies, weapons and tactics coexisting with traditional forms of conflict, opening fresh avenues for India-EU defence & strategic cooperation," he noted.
Referring to recent developments in India-EU ties, Jaishankar said the relationship had gained significant momentum this year. "Noted that India and the EU have, this year alone, concluded negotiations on the FTA, signed the Strategic & Defence Partnership, and Comprehensive Mobility Cooperation Framework, reflecting the growing depth of the relationship," he added.
In another post on X, Jaishankar highlighted his meeting with the UAE's Assistant Foreign Minister Lana Nusseibeh on the sidelines of the Kultaranta Talks. The post said, "Good to meet Assistant FM Lana Nusseibeh of UAE #KultarantaTalks #Finland." Jaishankar said that during the meeting, he "took stock of the advancements in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" and "exchanged notes on regional issues of mutual interest as well."
In a separate post on X, Jaishankar said that he was "pleased to meet" Finnish President Alexander Stubb on the sidelines of the Kultaranta Talks. He said both leaders "exchanged views on the evolving geopolitical situation and underscored the importance of diplomacy in navigating an increasingly uncertain global environment." He added that "India and Finland remain committed to advancing our Strategic Partnership in Digitalisation and Sustainability, while strengthening coordination in multilateral fora on issues of shared interest."
