HELSINKI, 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, highlighting the global impact of ongoing conflicts, the need for resilient supply chains, India’s energy priorities, and the expanding 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, Jaishankar said, “Participated in an engaging discussion with FM Elina Valtonen of Finland and Assistant FM Lana Nusseibeh of the UAE on ‘Emerging Powers and the New Geopolitical Competition’ at the Kultaranta Talks.”
Jaishankar noted that the effects of current conflicts extend far beyond the regions directly involved.
“Ongoing conflicts are imposing costs and triggering changes far beyond the regions,” he said, adding that the international community must continue efforts to mitigate their consequences and create conditions conducive to diplomacy.
He also emphasized the importance of strengthening global supply chains amid growing geopolitical uncertainty.
“Emphasized the importance of de-risking and diversifying supply chains, building greater resilience and redundancy in an increasingly volatile world,” Jaishankar said.
Addressing India’s energy policy, he reiterated that the country’s decisions are guided by national interests and practical considerations.
“India’s energy choices are guided by national interest, with purchases based on considerations of affordability and availability,” he said.
Highlighting India’s engagement with the Gulf region, Jaishankar underscored the importance of longstanding ties and expanding strategic cooperation.
He said India’s relations with Gulf nations are anchored by strong people-to-people connections, energy cooperation, and growing strategic and defense partnerships.
Jaishankar also pointed to the evolving nature of modern warfare and the opportunities it presents for deeper collaboration between India and Europe.
“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 defense and strategic cooperation,” he said.
Referring to recent developments in India-EU relations, Jaishankar said the partnership has gained significant momentum this year.
“India and the EU have, this year alone, concluded negotiations on the FTA, signed the Strategic and Defence Partnership, and the Comprehensive Mobility Cooperation Framework, reflecting the growing depth of the relationship,” he said.
On the sidelines of the Kultaranta Talks, Jaishankar also met UAE Assistant Foreign Minister Lana Nusseibeh.
“Good to meet Assistant FM Lana Nusseibeh of the UAE,” he said in a post on X.
Jaishankar said the two leaders reviewed progress under the India-UAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and exchanged views on regional issues of mutual interest.
In a separate meeting, Jaishankar met Finnish President Alexander Stubb.
“Pleased to meet President Alexander Stubb of Finland on the sidelines of the Kultaranta Talks,” he said.
According to Jaishankar, the two leaders exchanged views on the evolving geopolitical landscape and emphasized the importance of diplomacy in addressing global challenges.
“India and Finland remain committed to advancing our Strategic Partnership in Digitalization and Sustainability, while strengthening coordination in multilateral forums on issues of shared interest,” he added. (ANI)
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